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10.1 Baseline for Legal Information for Low-Income Persons – Legal Information via Websites and Social Media

Needed capacities or functions - Legal Information via Websites and Social Media

  1. Programs should collaborate in providing a statewide website with the following features: 

    1. current information regarding legal services programs and their services; 

    2. relevant and up-to-date self-help material, legal information, and referral resources presented in plain language; 

    3. capacity to properly serve persons with limited English proficiency; 

    4. modern visual and interaction design components that enhance usability and match users' expectations of current web-based experiences. 

    5. website designed and maintained in compliance with accessibility principles outlined in current Section 508/WCAG standards; and  

    6. LSC programs' participation in the website is in compliance with LSC restrictions.  

  2. In addition to general legal information available on a statewide website, the organization itself should have a compelling web presence that includes: 

  3. description of what services the program offers; 

  4. links to available triage systems, online intake, and help lines; 

  5. how to contact the program; and 

  6. how to apply for services. 

Important Considerations and Best Practices 

To assist users in identifying their legal issues and finding the most suitable legal help, programs should consider the value of integrating legal triage systems into their statewide websites. These triaging experiences can guide users to the appropriate resources and providers to effectively address their legal needs. 

Programs should adopt content maintenance protocols that outline how the justice community will periodically review content for accuracy, plain language, and overall usability. 

To the extent possible, a program should be sure that the content of websites to which it refers people is accurate and current. For frequently used websites, it may wish to confirm that the website has quality control measures and spot-check the contents. 

Pleadings and other forms for use by self-represented litigants should be developed as much as possible through a collaborative process with the courts in which they will be used, along with other legal services programs and justice community stakeholders. 

If an organization intends to leverage social media for outreach or legal information, it must create a clear policy that governs its proper use. The policy should specify roles and provide guidelines for content and branding across different social media platforms and ensure that permissions are up to date. 

Useful websites, resources, and other tools