Assists Clients with Diverse Legal Needs
Founded in 1937, Jacksonville Area Legal Aid, Inc. (JALA) serves 17 counties throughout North Florida. It is the parent organization of the St. Johns Legal Aid office, which provides free legal services to residents of St. Johns County. This organization offers assistance across various legal areas, including consumer law, housing, family law, employment, health law, elder law, immigration, veterans’ rights, expungement of criminal records, and legal support for nonprofit organizations.
Legal Support for Consumer Rights and Housing Stability
The Consumer Law Department advocates for individuals who have experienced deceptive lending practices, foreclosure, creditor harassment, and potential loss of military pensions. The Housing Law Department protects tenants from unlawful evictions and housing discrimination, working to ensure safe and stable living conditions for all clients.
Protecting the Rights of Workers and Older Adults
In collaboration with WorkSource, the Employment Law Department defends workers regarding workplace harassment, discrimination, trafficking, violence, and wage violations. The Health & Public Benefits Department partners with the University of Florida to serve clients managing mental health challenges, HIV/AIDS (via the Ryan White Program), and issues concerning Medicaid, Medicare, and other public benefits for families and children.
The Elder Law Department offers legal guidance on guardianship, living wills, advance care directives, and reports of elder abuse. The Immigration Law Department supports permanent residents, asylum seekers, certified victims of human trafficking, and other immigrants in navigating complex immigration processes and accessing legal protections.
Dedicated Legal Assistance for Military Personnel and Nonprofits
The Veterans Department assists active-duty service members and veterans with legal concerns related to disability benefits, family law, child support, and expungement. Expungement services help individuals determine eligibility for sealing criminal records, opening doors to employment, housing, and other opportunities.
Lastly, St. Johns Legal Aid supports community-based nonprofit organizations and offers guidance on grants, government programs, and legal matters involving zoning, employment, taxation, and real estate.