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Virginia Poverty Law Center
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Justice and Equity for Low-Income Virginians

We believe safety, justice, fairness, and opportunity belong to everyone. That’s why we fight for policies—and people—that create lasting change across Virginia.

About Our Work

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Legal tools, guidance, and self-advocacy resources to help you navigate the Virginia legal system.

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Our Work

Since 1978, we’ve been a source of information on poverty law issues. From new lawyer training to educational outreach to leadership on advocacy issues, we ensure that low-income Virginians’ voices are heard by our legal system.

Advocacy

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We advocate alongside communities and within the General Assembly to shape policies and fight for a more just and equitable Virginia.

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Education

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VPLC’s educational programs provide communities, partners, and policymakers with accessible tools, resources, and training to support informed advocacy for economic justice and essential services.

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Litigation

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VPLC uses the power of the court system to fight for low-income Virginians, holding both private corporations and the state accountable to ensure fairness and justice for all.

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We help make Virginia better for low-income residents with work in:

Ensuring Access to Safe and Affordable Housing

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Supporting Families and Children in Crisis

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Protecting Consumer Rights and Economic Fairness

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Ensuring Access to Healthcare, Essential Benefits, and Healthy Communities

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Just Launched: VirginiaLawHelp.org

This new statewide website provides free legal information and self-help resources for Virginians facing common civil legal issues.

Featured:

VPLC Launches VirginiaLawHelp.org: Free Legal Help Website for Virginians

Read more about the new site

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Stories from Virginians

These profiles put a face on the work VPLC does by sharing the real lives of people across Virginia who are confronting hardship, striving for justice, and making change. From Richmond to Chesapeake to Franklin, each story—whether it’s of foster youth reclaiming agency, immigrants seeking stability, or community members preserving traditions—illustrates how legal support, advocacy, and compassionate intervention are helping turn obstacles into hope.

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News and Insights

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VPLC Joins 2026 Interfaith Justice Revival Tour Across Southwest Virginia

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By Ezra Halstead

For the second year in a row, Virginia Poverty Law Center is proud to once again partner with the Virginia Interfaith Center for Public Policy (VICPP) and the Virginia State Conference of the NAACP for the 2026 Interfaith Justice Revival […]

Poster for the Interfaith Justice Revival, July 28-31, 2026, in Virginia, featuring faith leaders discussing the link between faith and justice.

The Work Continues: New Virginia Laws and the Pursuit of Justice

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By James W. (Jay) Speer, Esq.

As the nation reflects on 250 years of striving toward its founding ideals, new Virginia laws taking effect July 1 represent meaningful steps toward justice, dignity, and opportunity for all.

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Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals rules for children in foster care reform case; VPLC joined amicus brief

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By Valerie L’Herrou, Esq.

The Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals this month ruled on behalf of children in the foster care system in a case brought against the West Virginia Department of Human Services.

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Our Impact

Fighting predatory lending. Stopping evictions. Helping shape legislation. Our work drives lasting, people-first change at every level.

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Upcoming VPLC Events

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2026 Annual Statewide Legal Aid Conference

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Sheraton Norfolk Waterside Hotel, 777 Waterside Dr, Norfolk, VA 23510

Join advocates, attorneys, and community leaders advancing justice for low-income Virginians for two and a half days of learning, connection, and collaboration focused on equity, access, and lasting change.

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Take Action for Justice

We can all create lasting change for low-income Virginians. When you donate, advocate, or share your story, your voice strengthens our mission. Together, we’re fighting for fairness, supporting vulnerable communities, and building a future rooted in equity, dignity, justice, and opportunity for all.

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