Atlanta Legal Aid Society, Inc.

Overview

The Atlanta Legal Aid Society, Inc. is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing free civil legal services to low-income individuals in the Atlanta metropolitan area. Founded in 1924 by prominent members of the Atlanta Bar Association, the organization has a longstanding commitment to removing barriers to justice and helping clients address fundamental needs such as housing, family safety, and access to public benefits.

Mission

The mission of the Atlanta Legal Aid Society is to assist low-income people in meeting their basic needs and to remove obstacles to justice through comprehensive civil legal assistance. This encompasses a wide array of legal issues, including but not limited to housing insecurity, domestic violence, consumer protection, and family law.

Services Offered

The organization provides a variety of legal services, including:

• Housing Law: Assistance with eviction defense, landlord-tenant disputes, and public housing issues.

• Family Law: Support for victims of domestic violence, child custody, and adoption cases.

• Consumer Law: Guidance on issues related to debt, fraud, and consumer rights.

• Public Benefits: Help with applications for food assistance, healthcare, and income support.

• Elder Law: Legal aid for senior citizens regarding guardianship, nursing home issues, and public benefits.

Impact and Recognition

Atlanta Legal Aid is recognized as a leading legal service provider, not only for its comprehensive services but also for its innovative approach to legal aid. The organization has been involved in landmark cases, including Olmstead vs. L.C. & E.W., which significantly advanced the rights of individuals with disabilities.

The staff comprises over 60 attorneys and numerous volunteers who collaborate with private law firms and other organizations to enhance service delivery. The Atlanta Legal Aid Society has garnered national attention for its work, with staff providing expert commentary in various media outlets and contributing to legislative reforms.

Geographic Reach

The society serves clients primarily from Fulton, Clayton, Cobb, DeKalb, and Gwinnett Counties in Georgia. It operates multiple offices to ensure accessibility to its services for those in need.

Legal Education and Community Engagement

In addition to direct legal assistance, Atlanta Legal Aid is committed to educating the community about legal rights and available resources. The organization offers externship opportunities for law students, providing them with practical experience in civil law matters while enhancing the organization's capacity to serve clients.

Conclusion

The Atlanta Legal Aid Society plays a crucial role in the legal landscape of Georgia, advocating for the rights of the underprivileged and striving to ensure that all individuals have access to justice, regardless of their economic status. Through its dedicated services and community outreach, the organization continues to make a significant impact on the lives of many in the Atlanta area.