an organization formed to assist persons who have limited or no financial means
but need legal help, usually sponsored by the local bar association's donations,
sometimes with some local governmental financial support. Such societies examine
the assets and income of the applicant, decide if the person has a legitimate need
for legal services, give counselling, provide mediation, prepare simple documents,
and if absolutely necessary give free legal assistance from a panel of volunteer
attorneys. Originally most prevalent in larger cities, legal aid societies exist
throughout the country. They do not usually provide assistance in criminal cases
because indigent defendants are constitutionally entitled to representation by a
public defender or appointed private counsel paid by the government. Some societies
provide referral services to help a person find a suitable attorney, but normally
referral is made by the local bar association.
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