About Timberland Legal Aid
Committed to Justice, Rooted in Community
Our History
Founded in 1999 as Cowlitz Wahkiakum Legal Aid, Timberland Legal Aid began with a simple yet powerful mission: to ensure that everyone—regardless of income—can access justice when they need it most. For over two decades, we’ve stood alongside individuals and families navigating complex civil legal challenges, from housing and family law to protection orders and estate planning.
Our work is part of a rich tradition of legal aid in America, inspired by early efforts to provide legal support to those historically excluded from the justice system. Today, we carry that legacy forward—expanding our reach across Southwest Washington, partnering with local attorneys and community groups, and adapting to meet the evolving needs of those we serve.
At Timberland Legal Aid, we believe that equal justice under law isn’t just an ideal—it’s a right. And we’re here to help make that right a reality, one client at a time.
Honoring the Roots of Legal Aid: A Reflection by Mick Frey
Understanding Why Legal Aid Matters
The phrase “Equal Justice Under Law” is carved into the U.S. Supreme Court Building—but for many, it’s still out of reach. Longtime legal advocate and Timberland Legal Aid board member Mick Frey offers a powerful and deeply researched reflection on the history of civil legal aid—how it began, why it matters, and how far we still have to go.
Mick’s full article explores the roots of America’s legal aid movement—from its origins serving immigrants in 19th-century New York, to its current role in Washington State. It is a tribute to the generations of attorneys, activists, and everyday citizens who have worked to make justice accessible to everyone, regardless of income.
Click to read Mick Frey’s full article: “The History of Need for Legal Aid”
Our Mission
Timberland Legal Aid is committed to securing justice in civil courts for underserved individuals whose livelihoods, families, and well-being are at risk. We advance this mission through legal education, client advocacy, and active community engagement.
Our Vision
We envision a community where everyone—regardless of income—has access to skilled legal representation, ensuring fairness and equal justice through the court system.
What We Do
At Timberland Legal Aid, we provide free legal support to individuals and families facing civil legal challenges. Our work focuses on helping people who may not otherwise be able to access or afford legal representation.
Family Law:
divorce, custody, parenting plans
Protection Orders:
for safety and personal security
Housing Law:
evictions, landlord/tenant issues
Misc. Civil Issues
contracts – consumer issues
Real Estate:
property matters
Wills and Estate Planning
Immigration
Other Legal Issues
legal fines & backgrounds
How We Deliver Services
At Timberland Legal Aid, our approach is grounded in equity, dignity, and community empowerment. We recognize that navigating the civil legal system can be overwhelming—especially for those facing systemic barriers or financial hardship. That’s why we tailor our services to meet people where they are, offering accessible support that prioritizes compassion, cultural humility, and practical outcomes.