Our Model
While most immigration law offices focus exclusively on legal services, LIA offers a unique service model that includes holistic case management, community education, and advocacy.
Accessible legal services designed for immigrants
LIA meets the individual needs of immigrants and refugees through its low-cost legal services. We offer legal services for a nominal fee to those living at or below 200 percent of the Federal Poverty Guidelines (FPG). Approximately 95 percent of LIA’s clients fall below this level. Furthermore, LIA believes everyone is entitled to low-cost, high-quality immigration legal services. For this reason, there is a sliding fee scale for those living above 200 percent of the FPG.
Outreach and education to realize equity and justice
LIA’s outreach and education efforts are fundamental to realizing equity and social justice for immigrants and refugees. They are the foundation for the change we seek in West Michigan. In a world of “fake news” and fear-mongering campaigns to vilify immigrants and refugees, LIA’s education services are more needed now than ever. We visit churches, organizations, colleges, businesses, and schools, giving a variety of presentations on immigration law and policy.
Advocating for reform at the local, state, and federal levels
As we build a foundation for change with outreach and education, LIA is also implementing a variety of advocacy projects. LIA’s advocacy efforts are necessary to realize change and reform at the local, state, and federal levels. We advocate through position letters to state and local representatives, and national campaigns like Public Charge. LIA is also active in participation efforts to change local policy towards immigrants and refugees.