Rhode Island Legal Services

Our Mission

Rhode Island Legal Services (RILS) is a dedicated legal aid organization serving low-income individuals and eligible client groups in Rhode Island. Our mission is to empower our clients by providing high-quality legal assistance and representation to stabilize families, protect basic needs, and enhance their overall well-being.

Who We Serve

Every year, thousands of low-income individuals and families turn to RILS for assistance. Our clients come from diverse backgrounds and face various legal challenges, including:

• Family law issues (divorce, child custody, domestic violence)
• Housing instability (eviction, foreclosure, landlord-tenant disputes)
• Employment challenges (minimum wage, discrimination, wrongful termination)
• Access to healthcare and government benefits
• Consumer disputes (credit cards, debt collection, faulty products)

Our Services

RILS offers a comprehensive range of legal services, tailored to address the unique needs of our clients. Our services include:

• Advice and brief service: Receive guidance on legal options and procedures.
• Investigation: Gather evidence and identify potential violations.
• Negotiation: Advocate for clients in negotiations with creditors, landlords, or government agencies.
• Litigation: Represent clients in court or administrative hearings.
• Community legal education: Workshops and presentations on various legal topics.

Our Vision

RILS envisions a future where all Rhode Islanders have access to a fair and just legal system, regardless of their financial situation. We believe every individual should have the opportunity to vindicate their legal rights, resolve disputes, and achieve greater stability.

Our Values

Our work is guided by core values that underpin our mission:

• Client-centeredness: We prioritize your needs and concerns.
• Accessibility: We strive to remove barriers to justice by offering services in a welcoming and inclusive environment.
• Equity: We believe in upholding the law and ensuring equal access to justice for all.
• Collaboration: We partner with other organizations to strengthen our impact in the community.