Fire Victims: Watch Out for Scams!
Recovering from a fire is already overwhelming without scammers preying on one during vulnerable times. Protect yourself and your loved ones by staying alert and following these key tips. Don’t Sign or Pay If Someone:…
ICLS increases focus on veterans who are homeless or at risk of homelessness with new grant
Veterans face unique challenges in our communities, which can oftentimes compound into complex legal issues related to housing, health care, and more. Unfortunately, the reality is that many Veterans in our communities cannot afford…
SoCal Organizations Prepare for Immigration Challenges Under the Trump Administration
As the incoming Trump administration gears up to take office with plans for mass deportations, stricter border measures, and aggressive action to restrict lawful and unlawful immigration, Southern California organizations serving immigrant communities are mobilizing…
California tenants now have 10 days to respond to an eviction lawsuit
With a new law effective January 1, tenants in California now have twice as much time to respond to an eviction lawsuit. Going forward, tenants have 10 days to file their response, a notable increase…
ICLS honors staff milestones at annual recognition event
Fontana, CA – The end of the year is right around the corner meaning the brilliant individuals that make up ICLS gathered to revel over milestones reached and challenges overcome throughout the year, celebrate each…
A Message from Our Executive Director
To our friends and supporters, It’s been another incredible year of service here at ICLS alongside all of you. Our staff has helped our neighbors through difficult times, our donors have supported us more than…
Explaining the Child Tax Credit and Potential Changes in 2026
By Kevin Allec Arreola Each year, millions of American families claim the Child Tax Credit, which has undergone significant changes in the past decade. With some of those changes set to expire at the end…
San Manuel Band of Mission Indians Supports ICLS with Generous Grant
We are thrilled to announce that Inland Counties Legal Services (ICLS) has been awarded a grant from the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians (SMBMI). As part of their $12.6 million commitment to supporting essential…
ICLS Hosts LSC's Pro Bono Innovation Fund Team
Last month, we had the pleasure of hosting a team from Legal Services Corporation’s Pro Bono Innovation Fund, which helps legal aid organizations develop robust volunteer programs for attorneys. Back in 2022, we received a…
Lawyers in the Library program moves to a walk-in model
Are you a library patron seeking legal assistance? We are excited to announce that to better accommodate clients, our Lawyers in the Library (LITL) program is moving to a walk-in model. LITL offers eligible residents…
ICLS Recognizes Jen Okerlund as Volunteer of the Year
Inland Counties Legal Services is excited to announce Jen Okerlund, Director Counsel, International Trade at Target Corporation, as this year’s Volunteer of the Year – due to her efforts in helping ICLS launch our Gender…
Disability benefit appeals can be complicated, legal aid can help
For Francisco Castaneda, Social Security Disability Insurance was a lifeline when his kidneys started failing and his doctors told him he needed a transplant. A father to two young sons, Mr. Castaneda went from working…
ICLS Announces 4-day Work Week Pilot
A message from ICLS Executive Director Tessie Solorzano: We are excited to share that Inland Counties Legal Services (ICLS) is implementing a trial of a four-day working week from September 1, 2024 – February 28,…
CUSM & ICLS Public Benefits Practice Group Director earn Community Partnership of the Year Award
ICLS is thrilled to announce our Community Partnership of the Year Award, recognizing the exceptional contributions of the California University of Science and Medicine (CUSM) and our very own ICLS Public Benefits Practice Group Director,…
Divorce Basics: How to File and What to Expect
Navigating the divorce process can be challenging, especially when emotions and complex legal issues are involved. In California, there are specific requirements and steps to follow when filing for divorce, including filing the necessary paperwork,…
Loeb & Loeb LLP is ICLS's Law Firm of the Year
We are thrilled to announce Loeb & Loeb LLP as our Law Firm of the Year, celebrating their commitment to pro bono volunteerism, ICLS’s clients, and our LGBTQIA+ services program. Loeb is an instrumental thought…
ICLS launches Spanish language website, increasing accessibility
At ICLS, we know that the accessibility of legal aid is essential for people to maintain housing, health care, financial stability, and so much more. Legal aid is a lifeline for people living in poverty.…
ICLS gives thanks and bids farewell to their 2024 Summer Law Clerks
As the summer comes to a close, so has our annual Summer Law Clerk Program. This year’s law clerks came into our program with passion and a desire to help others, and they left with…
Four Law Changes California Renters Should Know About
The California Legislature passed multiple laws last year related to renters that are now in effect. These are some of the most impactful changes that you should know about if you are a renter in…
What to do if you’re the victim of a senior financial exploitation
Unfortunately, seniors are often the targets for scams and financial abuse. Many have funds saved for retirement, live alone, or have trouble with new technology, which scammers prey on. It can come in many different…
ICLS Welcomes New Members to Board of Directors
Inland Counties Legal Services is proud to welcome new members to our board of directors, who will help drive innovation at our organization, increase support for legal aid, and work to make justice a reality…
ICLS Kicks Off 2024 Summer Law Clerk Program
On Tuesday, ICLS welcomed ten talented law students from across the region to join the 2024 Summer Law Clerk Program. Each of the students will be embedded into an ICLS practice group or pro bono…
ICLS and partners offer community members a fresh start
Earlier this month, our pro bono team partnered up with Inland Empire Latino Lawyers Association (IELLA), Root and Rebound, Time for Change Foundation, and Young Visionaries Youth Leadership Academy for an expungement clinic uniting compassionate volunteer…
ICLS LGBTQIA+ Services Spotlighted at Equal Justice Conference
Last week, the National Legal Aid & Defenders Association and the American Bar Association hosted the Equal Justice Conference, where legal aid advocates from across the country convene to address issues related to the delivery…
ICLS Assists the Unhoused With Compassionate Advocacy
On April 18, Deliesha Brown, Esq., Director of Public Benefits Practice Group at ICLS, shed light on how our team tackles homelessness in the IE and beyond, by understanding disability insurance accessibility and providing compassionate…
ICLS Celebrates LSC’s 50th Anniversary, Impact on Access to Justice
This year marks the 50th anniversary of the Legal Services Corporation (LSC) – one of the most important civil legal aid partners in the U.S. For half a century, LSC has been Protecting the Promise…
California Pro Bono Portal will increase access to justice, volunteer opportunities
Pro bono attorney volunteers will now have an easier time finding volunteer opportunities in California, thanks to a new portal developed by A2J Tech in partnership with legal aid organizations, law firms, law schools, and…
ICLS takes action for LGBTQ+ Health Awareness Week & Transgender Day of Visibility
Streamers, sound bowls, and solidarity – this Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer (LGBTQ+) Health Awareness week and Transgender Day of Visibility festivities were some for the books! In March, ICLS staff facilitated several educational…
ICLS celebrates Fair Housing Month, fights discrimination
This Fair Housing Month is the 56th anniversary of the passage of the Fair Housing Act – the landmark civil rights law signed into law in 1968 that made discrimination in housing transactions unlawful. The…
ICLS hosts first Spring Internship Program
Earlier this month, Inland Counties Legal Services hosted its first spring internship program, where students from Southwestern Law School in Los Angeles gained real world experience in public interest litigation. The students – including Alicia…
IRS Direct File Pilot Expanded to California Residents
From the IRS: The IRS Direct File pilot gives people an option they’ve asked for — a way to file their taxes quickly, easily, and for free directly with the IRS. It’s now available for eligible taxpayers…
ICLS settles lawsuit with Riverside County, increases access to public benefits for T visa, U Visa, and VAWA applicants
Inland Counties Legal Services (ICLS) settled a lawsuit against Riverside County in December that will enable undocumented applicants for U Visas, T Visas, and VAWA – survivors of domestic violence, human trafficking, and other serious crimes…
ICLS celebrates female leadership, acknowledges barriers ahead of International Women's Day
In the legal field, gender disparity has long been an issue. Women have fought for opportunities, advocated for change on a systemic level, and achieved great successes as judges, law firm partners, and so much…
How a Proposed Bill Could Increase the Child Tax Credit
In early January, a bipartisan tax framework was proposed with the goal of “promoting the financial security of working families, boosting growth and American competitiveness, and strengthening communities and Main Street businesses.” The bill, known…
Addendum #1- ICLS Security Guard at ICLS Branch Offices
02/08/2024 Addendum #1ICLS Security Guard Services at ICLS Branch Offices RFP This serves as Addendum No. 1 and becomes part of the original Request for Proposals package. It must be signed and returned with your…
DEIB Racial Equity Subcommittee advances equity in the workplace
As part of our non-profit’s initiatives, we prioritize Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB). ICLS envisions a world where all people, regardless of background, have equal access to fair legal protections, adequate housing, affirming healthcare,…
Security Services at ICLS Branch Offices- San Bernardino and Riverside County
Open Date: Tuesday, January 30, 2024Request for Proposals (RFP)Description, Purpose, and ObjectivesInland Counties Legal Services (ICLS) is issuing a Request for Proposal (RFP) for an unarmed security guard service at ICLS’ branch offices in Riverside…
ICLS and IEPC collaborate on Name and Gender Change Workshop
By L Orozco Our LGBTQ+ Services Program teamed up with IE Prism Collective (IEPC) for a highly attended name and gender change informational workshop on January 8, 2024. Participants and community partners alike gained valuable…
ICLS Board of Directors Selects Erica Alfaro as 2024 President
The Inland Counties Legal Services Board of Directors has selected Erica Alfaro to serve as Board President for the 2024 year, due to her ongoing commitment to the organization and her dedication to justice. Alfaro’s…
The Most Common Types of Eviction Notices
Eviction proceedings can seem complicated and confusing, especially when paired with the stress of potentially losing your home. To help clarify the process and what you’re dealing with, these are the most common notices you may…
Housing, other law changes coming to California in 2024
Each year, the California Legislature enacts bills that result in changes to public programs, policies, and issues like housing. Such changes can have incredibly large impacts, and a few of those bills go into effect…
HIV patients face complex medical systems, legal aid can help
Thanks to medical advancements, advocacy, and awareness, HIV is no longer a death sentence for those who are diagnosed. The virus, which attacks the immune system and can develop into AIDS if left untreated, can…
ICLS staff awarded for advocacy, commitment to justice at annual meeting
On Friday, Inland Counties Legal Services staff members were recognized for their advocacy in the community and their dedication to clients at ICLS’s annual meeting in Riverside. Each year, ICLS staff gathers from across Southern…
ICLS's Small Business Holiday Gift Guide
This holiday season, make your gift-giving extra special and support small businesses that put heart and soul into their products with ICLS’s Small Business Holiday Gift Guide! Each of these businesses are locally owned and…
Special Education Clinic serves IE families
While every student is entitled to an equal education, some students with special education needs and IEPs slip between the cracks. ICLS’s Education Team aims to break down these barriers and get families connected with…
Addendum #1 - ICLS Single Audit RFP- Questions & Answers
*Note: A PDF of the Q&A can be found at the bottom of this page This serves as Addendum No. 1 and becomes part of the original Request for Proposals package.It must be signed and…
Why legal support is essential for domestic violence survivors
When it comes to domestic violence, getting legal assistance can be the difference between life and death. Survivors of such violence turn to the courts for protective orders, child custody, and divorce when they are…
ICLS Recognizes Outstanding Volunteers at Advocates for Justice Celebration
Inland Counties Legal Services (ICLS) recognized some of our most dedicated volunteers and advocates at our annual Advocates for Justice celebration on October 12 at the Life Arts Center in downtown Riverside. Fenwick & West…
2023 Audit RFP - Inland Counties Legal Services
*Note: A PDF of the RFP can be found at the bottom of this page October 16, 2023To Whom It May Concern,Our 501(c)(3) tax exempt organization, Inland Counties Legal Services (ICLS), is requesting a three-year…
Residents settle housing element suit with city of San Bernardino
SAN BERNARDINO – The city of San Bernardino will repeal parts of its “Crime-Free Housing Program,” as well as update its Housing Element plan, after settling a lawsuit filed in February by three residents. The…
Thank you to ICLS's 2023 Summer Law Clerks
Every summer, Inland Counties Legal Services offers a summer law clerk program for law students who are interested in public interest litigation and legal aid. This year, the program saw 12 exemplary students from across…
Shelters Available for Residents Impacted by Tropical Storm Hilary
From the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services:In response to Tropical Storm Hilary, California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services is coordinating with the California Department of Social Services and local governments to ensure impacted Californians…
ICLS Honored as One of OneJustice's 2023 Champions of Justice
Last month, ICLS was named one of OneJustice‘s 2023 Champions of Justice alongside our amazing pro bono partner, DLA Piper LLP (US). This recognition reflects the hard work of ICLS staff and DLA Piper volunteers…
ICLS at NICC 2023
Back in June of this year, it was with great pleasure that ICLS attended the Annual National Innovative Communities Conference (NICC). The NICC is a “premiere event that brings together cross-sectoral leaders, strategists, influencers, businesses,…
Settlement funding available for victims of Hesperia's "crime-free" housing policy
On December 27, 2022, a Federal District Court entered a consent order resolving the United States Justice Department’s race and national origin discrimination lawsuit against the City of Hesperia and the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s…
LGBTQIA+ Folx: Why you (and everyone you know) should have an Advance Health Care Directive
Originally published by the Riverside County Law Library. In honor of Pride Month, Inland Counties Legal Services (ICLS), a nonprofit legal services organization serving Riverside and San Bernardino Counties, is offering free legal programming for the LGBTQIA+ community,…
A Message from Outgoing Executive Director Darrell Moore
The last five and a half years as Inland Counties Legal Services’s executive director have been the ride of a lifetime. It still humbles me to think about how I got here and all the…
A Message from the Board President on the Executive Director Transition
It brings me both great sadness and great joy to reflect on the change in leadership we’re going through at Inland Counties Legal Services. As Darrell Moore steps back from the executive director and as…
Tessie Solorzano Selected as Next ICLS Executive Director
After a lengthy and thorough application process, the Inland Counties Legal Services Board of Directors has selected Tessie Solorzano to serve as the new Executive Director of the legal aid nonprofit. She will replace outgoing…
Justice Department Secures Landmark Agreement with Hesperia and Sheriff’s Department to End ‘Crime-Free’ Rental Housing Program
Wednesday, December 14, 2022 For Immediate Release U.S. Attorney’s Office, Central District of California Consent Order Resolves Allegations of Race and National Origin Discrimination, Requires Complete Repeal of “Crime-Free” Program and Ordinance, and Creates Settlement…
A Statement on the Monterey Park Mass Shooting
We are heartbroken that yet another Southern California community has been plagued by a mass shooting and that 10 individuals lost their lives in such a heinous and vicious manner at the Star Ballroom Dance…
RFP: Dissodocs (Legal Aid Infrastructure & Innovation Grant) Project Evaluator
LAIIG-RFP-for-Evaluation-Vendor-finalDownload Inland Counties Legal Services, Inc. (ICLS) is initiating this Request for Proposals (RFP) to solicitresponses from vendors interested in evaluating Dissodocs, a document automation project. ICLS staffcreated interviews and template court forms using Afterpattern-…
ICLS, Mary's Mercy Center partner on Expungement Clinic
Inland Counties Legal Services recently launched a free expungement clinic in Riverside and San Bernardino Counties to help residents with certain criminal convictions through the record clearing process, and a new partnership with Mary’s Mercy…
Meet Our 2022 Pro Bono Award Winners
Every year, we recognize our outstanding volunteers, advocates, partners, and supporters during pro bono week. They are a vital part of our operation, helping us assist more clients and launch new clinics, and donating their…
Domestic violence clinics and resources
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Pro Bono grant will expand legal aid offerings in the Inland Empire
Riverside — Inland Counties Legal Services was awarded a $435,404 Pro Bono Innovation Fund grant from Legal Services Corporation, which allow the nonprofit to expand legal aid in Riverside and San Bernardino counties through volunteerism. …
New expungement clinic to help Riverside and San Bernardino County residents
Inland Counties Legal Services has launched a new expungement clinic aimed at helping residents with certain convictions get a fresh start on life. The Expungement Clinic assists those with prior convictions in Riverside and San…
RFP: Pro Bono Innovation Fund Transformation Grant Consultant/Evaluator
This RFP has been amended and will now be due on September 23, 2022 by 12 p.m. Pacific Time. Inland Counties Legal Services, Inc. (“ICLS”) is soliciting proposals from consultants to work with our staff…
The Importance of Obtaining Your RAP Sheet
By: Alec J. Sperduto, ICLS 2022 Summer Intern Similar to many other areas of the law, the process of having a criminal record expunged can be nuanced and rather tricky to navigate on your own.…
The Taxpayer Bill of Rights and What It Means For You
As a taxpayer in America, you have certain rights when it comes to tax collection, which are outlined in the Taxpayer Bill of Rights. In the following webinars, Hayden Sanders, a law student and ICLS…
California DOJ Rap Sheets and How to Get Them
What is your California DOJ RAP Sheet? Your California Department Of Justice (DOJ) RAP sheet is a document that details your record of arrests and prosecutions across all counties in California. You might qualify to…
What All Small Business Owners Should Know About Entity Selection and Contract Basics
Thinking of starting your own business? Or, perhaps, you are in the early stages or ready for a business legal check-up? Learn from our expert corporate attorneys about the key elements of two of the…
Inland Empire Businesses Are Starting To Hire Again; ICLS Offers Free Employment Law Guidance To Small Business Owners
This blog was originally published by our partners at the Riverside County Law Library. To read to original post, click here: Inland Empire Businesses Are Starting To Hire Again; ICLS Offers Free Employment Law Guidance…
Tax 101: Installment Agreements as a collection alternative
When you’re hit with a tax debt you can’t pay, it can be daunting. You might want to cram the notices away in a drawer and forget about them, but the IRS has deadlines you need…
What small business owners need to know about hiring and firing
California law requires businesses with one or more employees to follow a set of complex employment laws. As a small business owner, it is especially important for you to follow these laws, since a single employment…
ICLS launches free "Small Business Essentials" Summer Webinar Series, continues Legal Clinics
Inland Counties Legal Services (ICLS) is heating up 😎 its free programming over the summer for entrepreneurs and small business owners 💼 in the Inland Empire. ICLS will continue to host its monthly virtual Small…
A statement on the Buffalo, NY mass shooting
We at Inland Counties Legal Services are heartbroken and angry that yet another hate fueled mass shooting has happened in America, this time, at a grocery store in Buffalo, New York. We mourn for the…
Request for Proposals RFP: Access to Justice Legal Aid Infrastructure and Innovation Family Law DissoDocs App Development
REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS RFP INLAND COUNTIES LEGAL SERVICES, INC. Access to Justice Legal Aid Infrastructure and Innovation Family Law DissoDocs App Development RFP- Access to Justice Legal Aid Infrastructure and Innovation Family Law DissoDocs App Development…
COVID-19 Rental Relief Applications to Close on March 31, 2022
When COVID-19 hit and caused immense financial disruptions, the Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) was implemented in California to help both tenants and landlords alike live the same quality of life. The state’s program has been…
ICLS continues to offer free clinic for Small Businesses
On the third Wednesday of every month throughout 2022, Inland Counties Legal Services (ICLS) will host a virtual Small Business Clinic, providing free legal advice for eligible small businesses in the Inland Empire. Starting and…
ICLS launches clinics for Emergency Rental Assistance, Small Claims Back Rent
Starting on January 25 and continuing throughout 2022, Inland Counties Legal Services will host clinics to help Riverside and San Bernardino County residents access Emergency Rental Assistance and Small Claims Back Rent. It’s clear that residents in our community are…
Request for Proposal for 401(k) Savings Plan Audit Services
*The full PDF Request for Proposal and Addendum #1 can be found at the bottom of this page. Addendum #1 RFP for 401(k) Savings Plan Audit Services This serves as […]
ICLS Annual Luncheon highlights our staff
Every year we have an annual meeting that awards a few of our phenomenal staff members for all their hard work. Take a look at our awardees and what they are known for.
Giving Tuesday is around the corner
Start the season off right by donating to ICLS this Giving Tuesday!
Covered CA Health Plan Open Enrollment
The American Rescue Plan increased subsidies, reducing healthcare costs for lower income Americans and protecting those without employer coverage from paying more than 8.5% of their income on health insurance premiums.
VA vs. SSA Disability Benefit
See what you can qualify for as we answer your questions about the VA and SSA Disability Benefits and how to apply!
Their diabetes medication was going to run out in 3 weeks!
ICLS assists a senior in acquiring a better healthcare plan for him and his wife to afford their medications
Ms. Smith Was Worried to Lose Her Home of Over 20 Years
ICLS successfully assists an elderly woman in complicated financial distress after being taken advantage of by her contractors!
“I felt like I was sinking.”
ICLS helps a selfless mother dismiss all her consumer debt lawsuits without even going to trial!
“I felt so desperate about what to do next”
When a 64-year-old Kenyan immigrant named Monica fell on financial hardships after a car accident, her and her family’s livelihoods were threatened when she could no longer afford a predatory home loan. With the help…
A new start on life
A 52-year-old widow with multiple sclerosis named Lisa became desperate for help when she found herself uninsured. After turning to Inland Counties Legal Services, she left with the assistance she needed and a new business…