The History of CMLS
Since 1977 the primary funder of CMLS has been the federal Legal Services Corporation.
Seven regional programs – Central Minnesota Legal Services (CMLS), Mid-Minnesota Legal Aid (MMLA), Anishinabe Legal Services(ALS), Judicare of Anoka County, Legal Aid Service of Northeastern Minnesota (LASNEM), and Legal Services of Northwest Minnesota) together comprise the Minnesota Legal services Coalition (the Coalition) and provide a full range of legal assistance for low-income people in every county in Minnesota. While there are local differences, the programs and common goals and objectives and similar eligibility and board structures. The programs coordinate closely to develop comprehensive strategies for serving clients statewide. The programs cooperate on their legal work, volunteer attorney programs, community education, evaluation and peer review, professional development, technology, and fundraising efforts.
The Coaliton funds LawHelpMN.org, a comprehensive statewide legal education and referral website including live navigational assistance through LiveHelp.
The Coalition also funds ProJusticeMN.org, a website for legal aid and pro bono practitioners, law students, and others including poverty law materials and pro bono attorney volunteer opportunities.