Legal Aid of Western Michigan - St. Joseph Office
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Contact Information

Name: Legal Aid of Western Michigan - St. Joseph Office
Address: 901 Port Street, St. Joseph, MI - 49085
Phone: (269) 983-6363
Fax: (269) 983-1916

Service Information

Legal Aid of Western Michigan has a dedicated staff to provide legal assistance to eligible clients. Legal Aid provides legal advice and representation in a broad range of areas including consumer cases, family matters, housing problems, government benefits such as SSI, Food Stamps and Medicaid, and other "non-fee-generating" cases. Legal Aid does not handle criminal matters.  If you are low income and are charged with a crime, contact the Court to ask for appointed counsel. People eligible for free legal services at Legal Aid of Western Michigan are Low Income persons and Seniors (persons 60 years of age and older). Services are targeted for persons who are at or slightly over the Federal poverty levels.  Families who receive government benefits or work at lower wage jobs are most likely to be eligible for services.


St. Joseph Office serves Berrien County.


Office hours are 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.  The office is closed for lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. each day.
Attorneys in this office see clients by appointment only.
The phone lines are open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday  from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and on Wednesday from 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Hours:
  • Monday 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
  • Tuesday 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
  • Wednesday 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
  • Thursday 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
  • Friday 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
  • Saturday closed
  • Sunday closed

Mission Statement: To secure justice and protect rights of low-income individuals unable to obtain and pay for legal services in civil matters by the provision of legal representation and counsel.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is legal aid?

Legal aid is free or low-cost legal advice and assistance given to those who cannot afford the services of an attorney.

2. Who is eligible for legal aid?

The eligibility requirements for legal aid vary depending on the country or state, but generally, those who have limited income and cannot afford the services of a lawyer are eligible for legal aid.

3. How can I apply for legal aid?

To apply for legal aid, you can either visit your local legal aid office or access their website to fill out an application form. You will be required to provide information on your income and assets, as well as the legal issue you need assistance with.

4. What types of legal issues are covered by legal aid?

Legal aid covers a wide range of legal issues, including family law, criminal law, employment law, housing, consumer law, and immigration law.

5. Can I choose my lawyer with legal aid?

In some cases, you may be able to choose your lawyer with legal aid. However, in most cases, the lawyer assigned to you by legal aid will depend on their availability and expertise in the area of law your case involves.

6. How much does legal aid cost?

Legal aid is either free or offered at a reduced cost, depending on your income and assets.

7. What documents do I need to provide for legal aid?

When applying for legal aid, you will need to provide proof of your income and assets, such as bank statements, tax returns, and proof of benefits.

8. Is legal aid available for international cases?

Legal aid is only available for cases that fall within the jurisdiction of the country or state offering legal aid services.

9. Can I appeal a decision made by legal aid?

If you are not satisfied with the decision made by legal aid, you may have the right to appeal the decision. This may involve filling out an appeal form or attending a hearing.

10. How can I find a legal aid office in my area?

You can find a legal aid office in your area by searching online or contacting your local bar association.