Varnum has pledged to provide another $30,000 to support the Legal Assistance Center (LAC), a nonprofit legal self-help center that helps individuals solve basic legal problems and use the courts on their own.
The LAC serves people involved in civil matters, such as divorce, custody, child support, parenting time, landlord/tenant matters, small claims and debt collection. In 2023, the organization provided support to more than 27,000 patrons in Kent County with basic legal issues.
“We are proud to continue our support for the work being done by the Legal Assistance Center. The LAC plays a crucial role in Kent County, providing services to individuals in need while strengthening the entire legal community,” said Beth Wells Skaggs, Varnum partner and former board member of the LAC.
Varnum has been involved with the LAC since its inception in 2002, providing financial support and leadership.
The LAC, located on the 5th floor of the Kent County Courthouse at 180 Ottawa Ave., is staffed by five employees and more than 30 student volunteers in pre-law, paralegal or other related programs at local universities. The center currently operates 32 hours per week, providing basic legal information, forms, resources and guidance. People are referred to the LAC in multiple ways, including by Friend of the Court, Legal Aid, various bar associations, attorneys and others involved in the court system.