The Minnesota Disability Law Center (MDLC) is the federally designated Protection and Advocacy agency for individuals with disabilities across Minnesota, operating as a specialized unit of Mid-Minnesota Legal Aid. It stands out as a critical resource providing free legal assistance on disability rights issues, leveraging unique federal access authority to monitor and investigate facilities serving people with disabilities.
MDLC focuses on systemic advocacy and individual casework to eliminate abuse and neglect, increase integration, reduce discrimination, and improve access to appropriate services for clients of all ages and income levels. The center prioritizes cases that align with its strategic goals and often engages in litigation to address broad disability rights issues, supported by advisory committees comprising individuals with disabilities, family members, and service providers.
Services Offered
- Abuse & Neglect Advocacy
- Access & Discrimination Cases
- Community Services & Integration Support
- Education Rights Advocacy
- Employment Discrimination Assistance
- Representative Payee Reviews
- Litigation on Systemic Issues
- Monitoring & Investigations of Facilities
- Programs Into Adulthood Guidance
- Voter Access Advocacy (PAVA Project)
- Community Clinics and Outreach
MDLC serves individuals with any type of disability statewide and offers resources in English, with additional accessibility support available. The center does not handle certain case types, including mental health commitment defense, Social Security disability appeals, guardianship proceedings, personal injury, medical malpractice, criminal, workers’ compensation, family law, estate planning, or assisted living termination appeals.
