Supporting Students Beyond Legal Barriers

Thanks to your generous support  as well as that of community partners and a new grant from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter‑day Saints, Legal Aid of West Virginia (LAWV) is increasing its Lawyer in the School (LIS) program in southern and central West Virginia.

In addition to school‑based clinics in Kanawha and Putnam counties, LIS will be offering one‑on‑one legal assistance for families in Clay county schools during the 2026-27 school year.

Through these clinics, LAWV attorneys help families:

• Obtain guardianships or adoptions
• Access Social Security, TANF, SNAP, CHIP, Medicaid, Veterans, and other benefits
• Address housing concerns
• Secure protection from domestic violence
• Complete a variety of forms and documents

By meeting families early and providing caregivers with the legal tools and authority they need, LIS promotes long-term stability and helps prevent small legal issues from becoming deep family emergencies. This support creates an environment where children can focus on learning and enjoy the safety and independence needed for healthy development.

Thank you for standing with us in this important endeavor. Together, we are building stronger, healthier children, families, and communities across our state.

The Help She Found in Her Grandson’s Backpack

Linda cares for her two grandsons, Micah (11) and Noah (6), after her daughter’s struggle with substance use made it impossible to provide a stable home. When Micah’s father, who had previously not shown much interest in caring for the boy, unexpectedly moved to terminate Linda’s guardianship, she faced her first court hearing alone and overwhelmed.

Everything changed when Linda found a Lawyer in the School flyer in Noah’s backpack.

Through LIS, Linda met her attorney, Amber, who helped her prepare for a second hearing. Linda’s guardianship was preserved, and Micah’s father chose not to pursue further action. Afterward, Amber also helped Linda access rental assistance, providing much-needed financial and housing stability.

“Legal Aid and Lawyer in the School staff are so compassionate,” Linda says. “They listen.”

Linda continues caring for Micah and Noah and now proudly shares word of LIS with other families in her community.

Lawyer in the School – Spring 2026

Legal Assistant Abigail Hamilton, VOCA Attorney Sam Schaal, and LIS Attorney Amber Hanna at Career Exploration Day at Mary C. Snow West Side Elementary on Charleston’s West Side.

This LAWV team spoke with 3rd through 5th graders about what we do to help keep kids safe and support school families and the community. Students demonstrated strong interest by asking thoughtful and insightful questions about legal careers and the nature of our staff’s work.

Lawyer in the School presented information on local resources to families at the Richmond Elementary Family Night in Kanawha County this past March.

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