Why Stable Federal Funding Matters for North Dakota
BACKBONE OF ACCESS TO JUSTICE
Why Stable Federal Funding Matters for North Dakota
A Lifeline for North Dakotans
Every year, Legal Services of North Dakota( LSND) helps thousands of people across the state resolve civil legal issues( not criminal defense) that affect their homes, health, safety, and financial stability. Our attorneys and advocates meet clients at critical moments in their lives. These clients may be facing eviction, experiencing domestic violence, seeking custody of a child, or trying to access essential benefits.
What many people may not realize is more than 82 % of LSND’ s annual funding comes from federal sources. That funding is not just a budget figure. It is the reason we can provide help in all 53 counties, reach rural and tribal communities, and respond when people are in crisis.
The Federal Framework Behind Our Work
A large portion of LSND’ s funding comes directly from the Legal Services Corporation, which accounts for nearly a third of our overall budget. Additional federal support includes grants tied to disaster relief, technology improvements, veterans’ legal services, and human trafficking intervention.
Other critical programs are funded through federal dollars that pass through state agencies. These include legal help for older adults, survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault, child neglect situations, and vulnerable individuals who need protection from exploitation or abuse.
Taken together, these resources form the foundation of our organization. They allow us to maintain regional offices, hire skilled staff, provide free legal advice and representation, and build innovative access tools that make legal services more widely available.
The Consequences of Uncertainty
In recent months, LSND has been closely monitoring the national conversation around federal appropriations. While LSND currently does not have any active stop work orders, the looming uncertainty creates real challenges. Several of our programs have not released continuation funding, specifically related to veterans who are homeless or at risk of homelessness and domestic violence. Like many civil legal aid programs, LSND relies on reimbursement-based grants. Any delay or disruption in payment can create a significant strain on operations.
The reality is that if federal funding were to be reduced or eliminated, LSND would be forced to make difficult decisions quickly. We would likely need to cut or suspend services to seniors, reduce support for veterans, and scale back programs that assist victims of human trafficking, child neglect, and domestic violence. Even the development of new tools, like an online self-help site and legal clinics, would be impacted, as those programs depend on the staffing and infrastructure made possible by federal support.
Meeting the Needs of a Rural State
North Dakota’ s geography presents a unique challenge. Our state has a small population spread across long distances, with many communities located far from legal resources. LSND has worked hard to meet those needs through a combination of in-person services, virtual technology, and mobile outreach.
Recent investments in our intake process, document e-signature capabilities, and a forthcoming statewide legal self-help website are helping us reach more people, more efficiently. But these tools require ongoing funding. Without stable support, we risk losing the capacity to serve the communities that already face the greatest barriers.
This Is Not a Political Issue
It is important to emphasize LSND is a nonpartisan organization. We do not lobby or advocate for political outcomes. Our work is grounded in the belief access to justice should not depend on income or zip code.
The people we serve come from every part of the state and every background. They include seniors on fixed incomes, parents working to protect their children, people with disabilities, tribal members, and veterans. Their legal problems are real, urgent, and solvable— but only if help is available.
Building for the Future
LSND is taking proactive steps to navigate the uncertainty ahead. We are improving our internal financial systems, investing in strategic planning, and working with outside consultants to enhance our business processes. Our development team continues to pursue foundation grants and community support, and we are grateful for every dollar contributed through Giving Hearts Day, Giving Tuesday, and individual donations.
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