Document Type
Response or Comment
Publication Date
11-25-2025
Abstract
Montana faces a severe justice gap: nearly half of low-income residents have unmet civil legal needs, and rural counties lack attorneys. High costs, distance, and cultural barriers make traditional solutions ineffective. The Montana Legal Services Association proposes a Certified Lay Advocate Program to training community-based advocates to provide free, specialized legal help under supervision of a lawyer. This model, which has proven successful in Alaska and other states, is evidence-backed, expands access to the law, reduces costs, and delivers culturally competent assistance for critical issues like domestic violence and housing.
Recommended Citation
Holland-Stergar, Brianne, "Comment on Proposed MLSA Lay Advocacy Program" (2025). Faculty Journal Articles & Other Writings. 164.
https://scholarworks.umt.edu/faculty_barjournals/164