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Imagine that $20 could prevent you from being hired for a job, getting approved to move into a home, or being accepted into a trade program that can improve your life dramatically. One simple routine transaction can turn into a lifetime of struggle and poverty. Nicole had bills to pay and unknowingly used counterfeit money to pay her utility bill. Nicole received the money from a friend who had borrowed money before and returned the loan. This one transaction turned Nicole’s life upside down. After two years of supervised probation, Nicole was eligible for an automatic First Offender Pardon, as she had no other criminal record. She did not receive a pardon due to an oversight that kept a felony arrest on her record. Nicole, an avid volunteer at her local schools, sought out legal assistance from us.
Our attorneys diligently investigated the reason behind the missing pardon and found a consequential issue: an outstanding fee of just $14.20 that had never been paid, which prevented the automatic pardon from being processed. Through persistent advocacy and numerous phone calls, our attorney facilitated contact between Nicole and the appropriate agencies to resolve the matter. Once the fee was paid, the path was clear for Nicole’s First Offender Pardon to be granted. The felony arrest was removed from public record, thus restoring Nicole's ability to volunteer in schools. She saved an estimated $500-$600 in court and legal fees by avoiding a costly expungement process. Nicole’s story is a testament to the importance of legal advocacy and the impact of addressing bureaucratic obstacles. Through the dedicated work of legal aid services, individuals like Nicole can reclaim their reputations and continue contributing positively to their local communities.
*Client name changed to protect identity. |
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Grants Secured to Meet Demands for Expungement Services. |
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Our work with Goodwill and other reentry organizations in Northwest Louisiana has been rewarding and beneficial to our rural communities. We have hosted expungement clinics that have provided access to justice for over 150 individuals, with 92 clients successfully obtaining an expungements. Some of these applicants sought legal assistance for other issues, such as housing and custody.
The demand for expungement continues to increase throughout our service area. We pursued extra funding to support our efforts to open access to justice for all Louisiana residents. In May, we received three new grants from the Louisiana Bar Foundation Jock Scott Partnership Panels. These grants provide funds to pay for client expungement fees in the parishes of Avoyelles, Bienville, Caldwell, Catahoula, Concordia, Claiborne, East Carroll, Franklin, Grant, Jackson, LaSalle, Lincoln, Madison, Morehouse, Ouachita, Rapides, Richland, Sabine, St. Mary, Tensas, Union, Vernon, West Carroll and Winn Parishes. These crucial funds are a source of hope, helping to stabilize the future of residences in our community. Join us in making that a reality by making a contribute today. |
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Volunteers Expand Access Through Self-Help Desk in CENLA. |
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ALSC partnered with the Central Louisiana Pro Bono Project to support their domestic self-help desk, which operates inside the 9th Judicial District Courthouse in Alexandria. This collaboration provided an opportunity to bring direct legal support to community members navigating family law issues. Thanks to newly acquired tablets, ALSC staff were able to assist attendees in completing online intake applications for ALSC services on-site, making the process faster, more efficient, and accessible.
By offering real-time access to our intake system, we removed barriers that might otherwise prevent individuals from seeking help, such as a lack of internet access, transportation challenges, or limited digital literacy. This partnership also strengthens the referral process, allowing ALSC to quickly process applications and coordinate with the Central Louisiana Pro Bono Project to match clients with volunteer attorneys. The joint effort reflects our shared commitment to improving access to justice for underserved residents in Central Louisiana. |
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White House Budget Proposes Eliminating Critical LSC funds that support Acadiana Legal Service Corporation. |
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July 17, 2025 |
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Washington, D.C. – President Trump signed the One Big Beautiful Bill Act into law on July 4, 2025. The Administration’s budget, previously released on May 30, 2025, proposed eliminating the Legal Services Corporation (LSC), which would put at risk essential legal protections for veterans, seniors, and children in Louisiana. While the appropriation and markup process are currently underway in Congress, Acadiana Legal Service Corporation (ALSC) would lose an estimated $5.2 million in LSC funding that annually supports civil legal assistance for low-income people in north, central, and southwest Louisiana. |
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Celebrating Access to Justice at the 2025 LBF GALA.
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In April, a group of our team attended the 2025 Louisiana Bar Foundation. A heartfelt thank you to the Louisiana Bar Foundation for a truly unforgettable night at the Gala! We are thrilled to be part of the #AccessToJustice community, helping the cause of those in need of civil legal services. Together, we can make a difference working to support under-resourced communities with free civil legal aid. |
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Investing in Our Team to Strengthen Our Mission.
At Acadiana Legal Service Corporation, we know that the strength of our mission depends on the strength of our team. This summer, we invested in that strength through an internal staff training focused on growth, resilience, and well-being.
We were honored to welcome Dr. Angela White-Bazile, Esq., as our guest speaker. Her powerful and engaging presentation addressed the realities of burnout in service professions. She challenged our staff to recognize the early warning signs, understand the emotional toll of overextension, and reframe strength not as silent suffering—but as balance, connection, and care.
Our work often entails carrying the heavy burdens of our clients including poverty, instability, and life-changing legal challenges. We serve with compassion and determination, but we know that sustainability starts from within. A healthy team creates lasting impact.
By nurturing a supportive culture—where staff can grow, adapt, and thrive—we’re building a stronger foundation for justice in our communities. Because when we take care of our people, they’re better equipped to take care of others. Together, we’re not just solving legal problems—we’re changing lives, from the inside out.
Learn more about Dr. Angela White-Bazile, Esq. https://louisianajlap.com/angela-white-bazile/ |
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Exceptional Legal Service: Top Performers!
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Exceptional Legal Service: United in Purpose - Staff Driven is more than just a phrase. It's a reflection of who we are and how we work - together, with shared goals, fueled by the passion and dedication of every individual on the ALSC team.
We celebrate that unity by recognizing three outstanding individuals who embody the very best of what we do. These honorees were chosen through a thoughtful process - evaluationing hours contributed, time spent on cases, years of dedicated service, and performance evaluations.
Top Attorney - Janet Dugas
A legal mind whose clarity, compassion, and tenacity have not only achieved remarkable outcomes for our clients but have elevated the entire practice. Your leadership and professionalism inspires us all. Janet was awarded the Gavel, a symbol of her power and authority, as a reminder of her unending fight for justice for our underserved community.
Top Paralegal - Shannon Randall
The heart of case preparation and the bridge between legal theory and action, Shannon's attention to detail, tireless work ethic and quiet strength make justice not only possible but personal. Shannon was awarded the Scroll of Justice, closely associated with law and justice, which signifies knowledge, learning, the extent of life and passing of time, proclaiming her as a hero behind every lawyer's success.
Top Support Staff Member - Brenda Schexnider
The backbone behind the scenes, Brenda's work ensures that excellence isn't just aimed for - it's achieved, every single day. Brenda was awared the Silver Skeleton, symbolizing her steadfast support and guidance to those who seek help, proclaiming Brenda as a symbol of strength, resilience, and endurance.
We are reminded that exceptional service is not simply delivered - dedicated individuals like Janet, Shannon, and Brenda drive it. Let us continue to stand united in purpose and never forget: its our people who fulfill the promise we make to every client who walks through our doors. |
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We are currently seeking licensed, full time staff attorneys to represent low-income and elderly clients in various civil matters, like family law, housing, child-in-need-of-care, consumer and estate planning. We have urgent positions open in our Monroe, Shreveport and Alexandria offices. If you would like to join us serving others, please send a resume, cover letter and writing sample to careers@la-law.org.
Interested in volunteering only? Great news! Grab your pro bono hours by volunteering for our pro bono program to help expand our services and help our clients receive high-quality representation. Visit www.la-law.org/volunteer to sign up today! |
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Acadiana Legal Service Corporation
www.la-law.org
All information available in this newsletter is for general information purposes only. If you need legal help, you should contact a lawyer. You may be eligible for our free legal services and can apply by calling 1-866-275-2572.
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