Vermont Benefits from an $11 Return for Every $1 in Funding for Legal Services

November 6, 2019

The Vermont Bar Foundation commissioned a study with a grant from the Vermont Supreme Court in the fall of 2018. It is the first of its kind in Vermont. It analyzes and quantifies the impact that low-income legal services have on the Vermont economy.

Following a nine-month study process, members of the Vermont Access to Justice Coalition worked with Dr. Ken Smith of the Resource for Great Programs to develop a report showing the substantial benefits that low-income legal services unlock in the Vermont economy.

Whether obtaining federal services and benefits for Vermonters or bringing stability to at-risk families, low-income legal services ensure that fewer taxpayer dollars are spent. These services also ensure all Vermonters have true access to legal remedies and rights, regardless of their economic status.

• Read the report online
• See the report delivered by the Access to Justice Coalition to the Vermont House Judiciary Committee

Press coverage

• Press release on VT Digger
• Vermont Public Radio
• VT Digger commentary
• Other Paper commentary

Support our work

• Donate to Legal Services Vermont