Connecticut Bar Foundation has commissioned two new reports that assess the state’s civil legal aid system and demonstrate the economic value of investing in legal services for low-income residents. 

Civil Legal Needs Assessment, prepared by CTData Collaborative (survey by University of New Hampshire Survey Center)

• highlights the strengths of existing service providers  
• identifies unmet needs 
• offers recommendations to address system gaps

Economic Impact Report, prepared by Downstream Strategies

• quantifies direct financial benefits people receive when they can solve their legal problems 
• calculates that legal aid services provided approximately $10 million in direct financial benefits to clients in 2024
• shows that every dollar of public funding for legal aid generates approximately $2.90 in economic activity