The Commons Law Center

Mission

Bottom Line for Portland

In 2016, the founders of The Commons Law Center identified an alarming need for affordable civil law services. We found many Oregonians were over-qualified for legal aid services but could not comfortably afford an attorney. We set out to expand access to legal help through education, representation and support for everyday Oregonians. Since then we have provided legal services to over 2000 people in Oregon and expanded our programs in the following ways:
 

We have developed an affordable and accessible legal coaching and limited scope model to empower people facing Family Law issues in divorce and custody. 
 

Our Tenant Eviction Defense team, consisting of one attorney and one paralegal, assists upwards of 20% of the morning eviction docket every week in Multnomah County.
 

We help low-income Oregonians plan for their futures and handle their loved ones’ affairs with our Estate Planning & Probate program. In partnership with the African American Alliance for Homeownership, we offer free estate plans for Black Portlanders. 
 

With your support we can fully support & expand our programs and ensure greater access to justice.

Quote

“I was scared going into court, but after The Commons Law Center helped me I felt motivated and secure with what I needed to do. I really appreciate the help and kindness that was shown.” - Tenant facing eviction in Multnomah County

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

At The Commons Law Center, our commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion is at the core of our mission. We believe that access to justice should be a fundamental right for all, regardless of income, background, or circumstance. Our Homeownership Asset Preservation program (in partnership with the African American Alliance of Homeownership) as well as our free eviction defense clinic demonstrates our commitment to serving the most disadvantaged communities in the Portland Metro area.

Incentives

An anonymous donor will match the donations of the first $1000 raised.

Offer 11/1 - 11/7: The first 25 people to donate $25 will receive a coupon for a free pizza from Atlas Pizza.

Offer 11/13 - 11/17: Anyone who donates $25 this week will enter for the chance to win a 2-hour doggie hiking adventure with Surf’s Pup. Winners must live in Portland, Milwaukie or Happy Valley. 

Offer 11/20 -11/24: Anyone who donates $50 or more this week will enter a raffle to win a winery tour and tasting for up to six people at Helioterra Wines.

Offer 11/27 - 12/1: Anyone who donates $50 or more this week will enter a raffle to win a bottle of gin and four tasting coupons from Freeland Spirits.

Offer 12/4 - 12/8: The first ten people to donate $25 will receive a gift card from Sesame Donuts.

Offer 12/11 - 12/15: Anyone who donates $50 or more this week to The Commons and Growing Gardens will enter a raffle to win a one-year membership at Lan Su Chinese Garden.

Offer 12/18: Anyone who donates $50 or more on Monday will enter a raffle to win a distillery tour and tasting certificate for four people at Westward Whiskey. 

Offer 12/19: Anyone who donates $50 or more on Tuesday will enter a raffle to win four tickets to any mainstage show at Oregon Children's Theatre.

Offer 12/20: Anyone who donates $25 or more on Wednesday will enter a raffle to win two tickets and two popcorns at Hollywood Theater.

Offer 12/21: The first four people to donate $50 will win a tasting certificate for 4 people at Elk Cove Vineyards.

Offer 12/22: Anyone who donates $10 or more will enter to win a $50 gift card for McMenamins.

Offer 12/26: The first 5 people to donate $10 will receive a $25 gift card for Shake Shack.

Offer 12/27: Anyone who donates $25 or more will enter to win a tasting for four at Willamette Valley Vineyards.

Offer 12/28: The first person to donate $50 will win a $100 gift certificate and goodie bag from Ilani Casino.

Partner(s)

Thank you to our non-profit partners Northwest Pilot Project, The Pixie Project, Sisters of the Road, Clackamas Women’s Services, Partners for a Hunger-Free Oregon, Growing Gardens for collaborating with us to spread the word about The Commons Law Center and the vital legal services we provide.
 

Thank you to our business partners Atlas Pizza, Westward Whiskey, Sesame Donuts, Elk Cove Vineyards, Helioterra Wines, Lan Su Chinese Garden, Freeland Spirits, Shake Shack, Surf’s Pup Doggie Lounge, Willamette Valley Vineyards, McMenamins, Ilani Casino, Hollywood Theater, Oregon Children's Theatre for generously gifting us a variety of goodies for our supporters.