Legal Assistance of Dakota County

About CLC is appointed by the court to provide legal representation to children who are either wards of the state legal orphans or have been removed from their homes because they are in need of protection. CLC also represents foster children who request help. CLC provides this quality representation free of charge. Currently, CLC represents over 400 children. Since 1995, CLC, with the help of over 300 volunteer attorneys, has represented more than 1, 300 foster children. When children are taken from abusive or neglectful parents, they need to know their legal rights. CLC provides a multidisciplinary team of volunteer and staff attorneys and a social worker to listen to the children and help them navigate the complicated systems that control their lives. These advocates help guide the children by empowering them to speak up for what they want. CLC advocates help children understand the system and help judges and other court workers understand what the children want. CLC's staff attorneys and social worker provide expertise and years of experience to volunteer attorneys to support their efforts in representing foster children, including knowledge about specific laws and service available for the children. To promote the rights and interests of Minnesota's children, especially children of color and children with disabilities, in the judicial, child welfare, health care, and education systems.

Southern Minnesota Regional Legal Services is an operating branch of Minnesota Legal Services Coalition. Founded in 1981, The Minnesota Legal Services Coalition (MLSC) is an association of several Minnesota regional legal services programs. Formed to enhance cooperation and coordination, MLSC supports the regional programs for low-income Minnesotans with a range of civil legal matters. It has offices throughout Minnesota and is headquartered in St. Paul, Minn. Southern Minnesota Regional Legal Services employs more than 75 attorneys and support staff at its location in St. Paul.