Should I File A Complaint?

If you believe that a staff member of an LSC-funded program is acting contrary to the law, filing a complaint may be an appropriate step. First, we recommend trying to resolve your concerns directly with the staff member in question. If this is not successful there may be other remedies before contacting LSC:

• If you apply for legal assistance from an LSC-funded program and are turned down, you may file a grievance directly with that program. LSC's regulations provide that persons denied legal assistance may have a simple review of the decision that you are not financially eligible, or that assistance is prohibited by the LSC Act, LSC Regulations or by the priorities established by that program. See LSC Regulation §1621.4 for more information. ( 100k)
• If you are a client of an LSC-funded program, you may also file a grievance directly with that program. LSC's regulations provide that clients may file a grievance regarding the manner and quality of legal services provided. See LSC Regulation §1621.3 for more information. ( 100k)
• If you believe an attorney has acted in an unethical manner, you may file a complaint with the state bar association or other licensing authority. LSC has a duty to maintain the "highest quality of service and professional standards" (42 U.S.C. 2996f(a)(1)). LSC does not have the primary responsibility over enforcement of state professional and ethical standards. This is the responsibility of the local bar and/or judiciary.
• If you believe that the program has acted in a discriminatory manner with respect to employment, you may contact the EEOC or its state equivalent. While LSC does seek to ensure that recipients of LSC funds comply with all non-discrimination laws, we lack the enforcement authority that other agencies may possess.
• If you believe the program has violated a provision of the LSC Act or regulations, you may file a complaint directly with LSC.