Our team compassionately and respectfully addresses the legal needs of vulnerable populations to provide timely access to justice – empowering our community with education and knowledge.

Quarterly Updates

Q4 | 2023

A Note From Jen Lee, Executive Director

I hope this message finds you well as we approach the end of the year. I'm thrilled to share some inspiring updates and future plans that emerged from our recent strategic planning retreat.

In September, we gathered our dedicated board members and employees for a strategic planning retreat, a pivotal moment for our organization. This retreat was not just a meeting but a forge where we shaped our vision for the next three years. Together, we crafted a strategic plan that aligns with our core mission: to provide exceptional legal aid and make a lasting impact in our state.

Looking ahead to 2024, we are excited to announce a series of new Continuing Legal Education (CLE) opportunities. These sessions are designed not only to enhance our team's expertise but also to foster a deeper understanding of the evolving legal landscape. We believe that continuous learning is key to our effectiveness and commitment to those we serve.

In 2024, we are also embarking on new collaborations across the state. These partnerships are aimed at strengthening our network, sharing resources, and amplifying our impact. By working together with like-minded organizations and individuals, we can create a more robust legal aid system that reaches further and helps more people in North Dakota.

As we move forward, your support and involvement remain crucial. We are eager to embark on this journey with you and look forward to sharing more details in the coming months. Thank you for being part of our community.

Victims of Crime

Navigating the Safety Net: Understanding North Dakota's Crime Victim's Compensation Fund

In North Dakota, victims of crime find support through the Crime Victim's Compensation Fund, a safety net designed to alleviate the financial burdens that often accompany violence and crime.

New Attorney Sworn In!

Melissa Lyke, along with 30 other new lawyers, were sworn in at the Supreme Court Ceremony! We are so proud to have her as one of our team in the Fargo location. Congratulations!

Strategic Planning

It is not very often that we can all get together, but the entire team at LSND met this fall for our strategic planning session. With everyone's voice and ideas, we were able to plan some amazing initiatives to better serve our community!

Community Outreach Calendar is live!

We continue to improve our site and resources available to community every day. Now those looking to ask questions or apply in person for legal assistance can easily find our community outreach events online.

Community Outreach Calendar

Q3's Question:

Q: Which statement is not true?

A: You must reside in North Dakota to receive assistance.

The legal matter must take place within North Dakota, but you do not have to be a resident to receive assistance.

Which type of case cannot be covered with legal aide assistance?

Facing foreclosure on a home

Garnished wages

Tax Filing

Worker's compensation cases

Filing for divorce

Social Security Benefits Increase in 2024

More than 71 million Americans will see a 3.2% increase in their Social Security benefits and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments in 2024. On average, Social Security retirement benefits will increase by more than $50 per month starting in January.

Federal benefit rates increase when the cost-of-living rises, as measured by the Department of Labor’s Consumer Price Index (CPI-W). The CPI-W rises when inflation increases, leading to a higher cost-of-living. This change means prices for goods and services, on average, are higher. The cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) helps to offset these costs.

Supporting the Mission

LSND is a nonprofit organization that provides services to underserved communities. You can most help our efforts by volunteering your time or donating to support the cause.

Donate to LSND