Business Details
We are Legal Services of Northern California, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering lowincome residents through comprehensive civil legal aid. Our mission is to identify and defeat the causes and effects of poverty within our communities, using all available resources. For 70 years, we have fought for the civil rights of our clients, standing as a strong voice for the vulnerable. We began as independent volunteer programs in 1956, and over time our offices have merged into a unified organization serving 23 counties. Our largest office and administrative hub is located in Sacramento, but our reach extends across Northern California. We provide crucial civil legal services to tens of thousands of needy and vulnerable individuals each year.
Our work includes sophisticated litigation, legislative advocacy, administrative appeals, and community development. We have successfully challenged ordinances that threaten the rights of homeless individuals, such as the 2018 city ordinance case. We are committed to maintaining professional standards that prioritize client satisfaction and transparency. Our expertise spans affordable housing, public benefits, health, education, and civil rights. We collaborate with local agencies to secure benefits and protect clients from unjust eviction and discrimination. We remain dedicated to improving the safety nets for the poor and ensuring justice for all.
Our work includes sophisticated litigation, legislative advocacy, administrative appeals, and community development. We have successfully challenged ordinances that threaten the rights of homeless individuals, such as the 2018 city ordinance case. We are committed to maintaining professional standards that prioritize client satisfaction and transparency. Our expertise spans affordable housing, public benefits, health, education, and civil rights. We collaborate with local agencies to secure benefits and protect clients from unjust eviction and discrimination. We remain dedicated to improving the safety nets for the poor and ensuring justice for all.
Highlights and features
- We have 70 years of civil legal experience.
- We serve clients in 23 Northern California counties.
- We specialize in affordable housing and public benefits law.
- We have won landmark cases protecting homeless speech rights.
- We offer transparent, integrated legal aid across multiple counties.
Services
Affordable Housing
Our Affordable Housing service assists lowincome residents facing eviction, lease disputes, or housing discrimination. We represent clients in court, mediation, and negotiations to secure stable, affordable homes. Our proven advocacy reduces housing insecurity and preserves community diversity for families across Northern California.
Public Benefits
Our Public Benefits service guides clients through eligibility, appeals, and compliance for programs like CalWORKs, CalFresh, and Medi-Cal. We handle paperwork, represent clients in hearings, and negotiate with agencies to secure essential benefits. Clients gain timely, accurate assistance that supports their health, food, and housing needs.
Civil Rights
Our Civil Rights service defends individuals against unlawful discrimination in housing, employment, and public accommodations. We file lawsuits, negotiate settlements, and advocate for policy reforms that protect vulnerable populations. Clients receive strong legal representation that upholds equality and safeguards their civil liberties.
Health
Our Health service ensures lowincome residents obtain essential medical coverage, benefit enrollment, and appeals for Medi-Cal and other health programs. We provide expert guidance, submit appeals, and represent clients in hearings to secure necessary care. Clients benefit from timely, accurate assistance that addresses health disparities.
Education
Our Education service assists families with access to public schooling, special education rights, and educational benefits. We navigate school board procedures, file grievances, and advocate for students best interests. Clients achieve equitable learning opportunities and support for their childrens academic success.
