ABOUT THE WILLIAM BOOTH LEGAL AID CLINIC
The Salvation Army’s only free legal aid clinic
History
Founded by Robert and Ellen Dickman in 1994, the William Booth Legal Aid Clinic (WBLAC) was created with the goal of helping those struggling with addiction find new opportunities and a fresh start. Originally, the clinic was meant to specifically support those participating in the Salvation Army’s treatment programs, but over the last 30 years, the clinic has broadened its reach and become a critical part of Detroit’s legal system.
Who We Help
Today, a team of attorneys — led by Director and attorney Amy M. Roemer — as well as support staff and students help those in the Detroit community in need of legal assistance both in and out of the courtroom. The WBLAC team continues to provide quality legal services to those recovering from addiction as well as low income individuals, families, and U.S. Military Veterans in Detroit.
The WBLAC works with a number of local community organizations to deliver legal services to those in need, including the Salvation Army’s Harbor Light Program, local homeless shelters, and respite care and adult rehabilitation centers. The clinic also participates in community outreach events to further expand the reach of their services.
Since inception, WBLAC has resolved over 30,000 issues impacting the local community, including homelessness, domestic violence, child abuse and neglect, consumer advocacy, and legal issues of Veterans.
Community Partnerships
Oakland County Circuit Court
Wayne County Circuit Court
The Wayne County Friend of the Court
Wayne County Mental Health Treatment Court
Head Start
Smart-Detroit
Veterans Administration
Detroit Public Library
MentorJet
Wayne County LEAD Partnership
Wayne County Community College
UAW
Focus Hope
The United States Federal Probation Office
Clear Core
Breaking The Cycle
WBLAC & Metro Detroit Law Schools
WBLAC is able to support a large volume of cases thanks to partnerships with local law schools to give students the opportunity to earn practical hours through internships, externships, and work-study programs. The clinic has mentored over 250 students through its history, and those students have volunteered over 50,000 hours to supporting the organization’s mission.
About The Walk For Justice
2024 marks the 12th year the WBLAC will host the annual Walk For Justice: an event created to raise funds and increase awareness for the clinic’s services in the Detroit community.
This year, the Walk will take place at the Detroit Zoo in Royal Oak, and the all-day event will include a guided walk around the zoo, refreshments, prizes, family activities, and a silent auction. Individuals can purchase tickets online for the event ahead of time or at the door on May 11th.
All registration fees, sponsorship dollars, and funds earned from the silent auction are used to help the clinic continue to offer legal support to those in need.