We provide representation to the low-income and elderly in civil matters.
Legal Services of Southern Missouri provides representation to the low-income and elderly in civil matters only. Eligibility for legal aid may be based on income and assets of all members of the household and the legal problem.
If you think you may qualify for legal aid, please refer to the Applicants Page for more information on how to apply.
Communications with us by email do not create an attorney-client relationship with us. Under no circumstances should you send confidential information to us without first speaking with a LSSM attorney about establishing an attorney-client relationship. Additionally, communication with LSSM by email over the Internet may not be secure.
Domestic/Sexual Violence
We care about victims of domestic and sexual violence. LSSM provides service to adult and child victims of abuse, sexual assault, stalking and human trafficking. Our primary focus is securing orders of protection and safety planning.
Consumer
LSSM assistance ensures that issues such as debt collection and lending practices are done in a lawful manner. LSSM may handle cases such as: bankruptcy, debt collection issues, predatory lending issues, contract issues, and unfair or deceptive sales practices.
Public Benefits
LSSM provides representation in federal and state administrative hearings to protect the basic necessities of life. These may include: Medicaid, Medicare, food stamps, unemployment compensation, TANF/Temporary Assistance, and Missouri Health Net Managed Care Advocacy.
Community Education/Outreach
LSSM provides public education and outreach services to partnering agencies and community groups upon request. LSSM covers a variety of topics including: agency information, domestic / sexual violence, family, consumer, housing, public benefits, and elder law.
Family
LSSM handles some family law matters where the situation may threaten the security or the viability of a family. LSSM may handle the following types of cases: paternity, adoption, name change, and guardianship.
Housing
LSSM may provide representation to ensure that landlords follow proper procedures in dealing with tenants. LSSM may represent tenants with the following types of cases: lease agreement dispute, landlord lockouts, poor living conditions and public housing issues.
Elder Law
LSSM may provide assistance with wills, estate planning, and probate matters in limited situations. Simple estate planning may include beneficiary deeds, powers of attorney, and health care directives. We may also provide assistance with guardianships for those who need protection.
Legal Information and Forms
The four Missouri Legal Services organizations provide basic legal information for the public.