Are LegalCORPS services limited to the Twin Cities area?
No, LegalCORPS assists small businesses and nonprofit organizations throughout Minnesota. It is a statewide service.

Once I submit my application how long will it take to get an attorney?
The answer will differ for every client, depending on factors that include the nature of the case, attorney availability, the presence of conflicts of interest, and the number of other cases awaiting placement. LegalCORPS cannot guarantee that a case will be placed but will make a good faith effort to find representation for an eligible client. The placement process can take up to two to four weeks.  However, if a matter is time-sensitive (for instance, it has a deadline) LegalCORPS will attempt to expedite the search process.

If my case is not placed will I receive a refund of the $50 administrative fee?
Yes.

What if I need an interpreter?
At present LegalCORPS does not provide interpreters. LegalCORPS will work with the collaborating organization referring the client to obtain interpreter services. LegalCORPS plans to eventually provide materials in additional languages on this website.

Why does the LegalCORPS application for full-representation assistance require so much documentation?
The LegalCORPS application process is thorough in order to ensure that the client receives the appropriate service, the attorney understands the nature of the case and the client’s economic situation, and to avoid conflicts of interest that may prevent representation by a particular attorney.

Knowing the full story enables LegalCORPS to make a fair assessment of eligibility and find the best match possible. (Also, some of LegalCORPS' funders require it to follow low-income guidelines.)

If a client applies for a second time to LegalCORPS it may not be necessary for the client to send in all of the same materials as before because everything from the first application is kept on file. It is the client’s responsibility, however, to ensure that LegalCORPS has the most up-to-date information in its files.

What happens once my case is placed with an attorney?
You will be notified of your attorney’s name and contact information. It is up to you to make contact with your attorney and to be available to your attorney at all times. Effective legal representation relies upon the active involvement and participation of the client. Return your attorney’s calls, show up for appointments (or reschedule when you have a conflict), and provide all requested information in a timely manner. Communication and cooperation are key to a successful attorney-client relationship.

How often can I use LegalCORPS services?
So long as your organization and business is eligible for LegalCORPS and you present appropriate legal issues you may continue to receive our services.

Why do you want to know whether I have worked with another attorney on this legal matter?
As part of the legal community, LegalCORPS respects the professional relationships attorneys enter with their clients. If you have worked with an attorney on the same or similar legal issue you are presenting to LegalCORPS, we will notify the attorney and ensure that there is no barrier to LegalCORPS providing representation. We will obtain your permission before contacting the attorney.

Why don't you provide services to start-up nonprofits? Why do you require a business plan?
Other technical assistance organizations in Minnesota assist start-up nonprofit organizations and people planning small businesses; LegalCORPS does not want to duplicate their efforts. A start-up issue might not be legal in nature or it might be too early in the business development process to seek legal advice.

If you are not sure whether you should apply to LegalCORPS or seek guidance from a management assistance organization,  please call LegalCORPS anyway.  We can review the facts of your situation and provide referrals, if needed. This website also provides links to several organizations providing management assistance and consulting.

What happens if I want to work with the same attorney after my organization or business is no longer eligible for LegalCORPS services?
LegalCORPS determines a client’s eligibility each time the client applies for assistance.  LegalCORPS matches attorneys with clients for each new application.  For each attorney-client match LegalCORPS makes, the lawyer and client makes a new client representation agreement. It is a good practice to formalize this representation through your own retainers and letters of representation as well.

We realize that attorney-client relationships often build over time, and that an attorney and client might want to continue to work together.  They certainly can do so through LegalCORPS, as long as the client meets eligibility criteria.  Once a client is no longer eligible for LegalCORPS services, the attorney and client are free to continue their relationship without the involvement of LegalCORPS.