Resources for human services workers

There is an abundance of resources in Massachusetts for people who are trying to help other people solve a legal problem. You do not need the answer to the problem. You just need to know where to look. In fact, only a lawyer is allowed to give legal advice. You can help people find information by using the following resources:

If you are reading this, you have started at the right place: MassLegalHelp.org, where you can find practical, easy to understand information about your legal rights in Massachusetts.

Your local public library

Do not forget your local public library! Ask your local public librarian in person, by phone or by email about how to get your research started, and where to find the right legal materials. Find the public library in your community.

MassLegalServices.org

Find trainings and events where you can learn more about how the law affects your clients on the MassLegalServices webpage Upcoming Trainings for Poverty Law and Social Services Advocates. Use the library to find more extensive material about laws affecting low-income Massachusetts residents. Read the Advocacy Guides to get a good, thorough picture on a particular topic.

Massachusetts Trial Court Law Libraries

The Trial Court Law Libraries are open to the public.

• You can ask your librarian for help in person, email or online chat.
• You can find books and online materials that will guide you through the legal process.
• You can get a free library card to borrow books and videos
• Find the Trial Court Law Library closest to you.

Lawyers

Only lawyers are legally allowed to give legal advice. If the person you are trying to help needs a lawyer, they may be able to get free legal services.

There are also a number of lawyer referral services across the state. These services can help the person you are trying to help get the legal advice they need. Sometimes the lawyer referral service can even give brief advice over the phone.

More resources

Download and print bookmarks you can give clients who need legal information. Or contact us and we may able to send you some bookmarks to distribute.