Explaining the Law and Providing Self-Help Information for Low-Income Iowans
There are 7 resources
How to Use Small Claims Court
(Separate Website)
This Manual has been prepared to assist persons who want to sue or defend themselves in Small Claims Court in Iowa without hiring a lawyer. It outlines the basic steps involved in bringing and defending a small claims action and answers some basic questions for the person who chooses to "go it alone."
By: Iowa State Bar Association
Iowa's Assistive Devices "Lemon Law"
Many people use a wheelchair or some other piece of equipment to help them live with a disability. These are called assistive devices. What can you do when assistive equipment does not work right? In Iowa, the assistive devices "lemon law" gives you certain rights concerning the repair and replacement of a new assistive device.
By: Iowa Legal Aid
Mortgage Foreclosures and Land Contract Forfeitures
People are usually not able to pay in full when they buy a home. As a result, most Iowans finance homes through either a mortgage or a land contract. If the buyer fails to make payments the loan terms require, each of these financing tools allows the lender to retake the home. The steps involved depend on whether it is a mortgage or land contract.
By: Iowa Legal Aid
Payday Loans: An Expensive Way to Borrow Money
Payday loan businesses extend credit by giving cash in exchange for a check which is dated for some time in the future, also called a post-dated check. If you figure the interest rate on these loans the same way banks calculate interest rates on their loans, the Annual Percentage Rates you pay for these loans can range from 145% - 6442%!!!!!
By: Iowa Legal Aid
Shopping for an Assistive Technology Device
When you need an assistive device, it's a good idea to be sure to get one that works well and does what you need it to do. Learning as much as you can about a device and testing it before you buy can prevent problems. It is worth the time to make sure the device you choose helps gain more independence, better health or a fuller use of your abilities.
By: Iowa Legal Aid
The Basic Rules of Credit Cards
Using a credit card to cover a major purchase or essential family living expense is generally a bad idea. Credit cards should only be used as a source of funding for emergencies such as car repairs, or for short-term loans for large purchases only.
By: Iowa Legal Aid
Watch Your Wallet!
Getting into a debt-rut is a lot easier than getting out of it. Here are some tips about special pitfalls common to high-priced debt .
By: Iowa Legal Aid
The Iowa Legal Aid Website is a project of Iowa Legal Aid, the Volunteer Lawyer Projects of the Iowa State Bar and Polk County Bar Associations, and HELP Legal Assistance
ILAW Home
Referral Finder
