Every one of over 50 studies conducted on the return on investment (ROI) of civil legal aid in the last 25 years demonstrates that civil legal aid provides a positive return on investment. In state after state, investment in civil legal aid has paid for itself many times over.
By helping individuals resolve legal challenges, legal aid reduces the burden on government services and strengthens communities.
How Legal Aid Delivers Return on Investment
Return on Investment (ROI): ROI is the financial return generated for every dollar spent.
Civil legal aid delivers immediate and measurable direct returns to families, individuals, and taxpayers, as well as powerful indirect benefits that fuel long-term economic growth and strengthen community stability.
Prevents wrongful evictions, foreclosures and unfair debt collection. Helps domestic violence survivors secure protective orders, safe housing and financial support.
about how legal aid helped him when the VA erroneously sent him a $52,000 bill.
Secures unpaid wages, veterans’ benefits, child support, Social Security payments and record sealing ensuring people receive the financial support they are legally entitled to.
about how legal aid helped her get her money back from a fraudulent contractor.
Lowers costs for emergency shelters, healthcare, social services, emergency financial assistance and law enforcement by resolving legal issues before they require government intervention.
about how legal aid helped her stay in her home after Hurricane Harvey.
Civil legal aid fuels economic growth through the economic multiplier effect — every dollar secured through legal aid circulates through local businesses, increasing spending, job retention and overall economic stability.
What the Research Shows
Explore the findings in your state using the map below or read our .
For additional information or questions about this research, please contact the Office of Data Governance and Analysis at datateam@lsc.gov.