Featured stories

Read about our clients and staff, the positive impact ARS has on people’s lives, and how our work affects disparity reductions.

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Recognizing staff for Women’s History Month

For Women’s History Month, we recognize two Adult Representation Services staff members whose contributions to clients and our department embody our mission and vision of holistic advocacy.

Upcoming ARS clinics and resource events

From now through August 2024, you can visit the ARS table at one of three Hennepin County libraries. We’re also hosting two walk-in clinics.

ARS principal attorney Jessica Ryan, with colleagues by her side, speaks at a community event celebrating a U.S. Supreme Court decision upholding the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA).

Protecting the rights of American Indian families isn’t just a job, it’s a mission

For ARS attorney Jessica Ryan, working to protect the rights of American Indian families is a professional and personal mission. Her depth of knowledge is an incredible benefit to the clients served by ARS.

Five years of growth and impact

This year marks the 5-year anniversary of Adult Representation Services. We have grown from two staff and 1,000 cases in our first year to 76 staff and more than 3,400 cases at the halfway mark of 2023.

Staff highlights: Felicia Walker and Noah Longo - July 2023

Highlighting ARS staffers who work behind the scenes.

Guardianship attorney celebrates success, shares expertise with colleagues - April 2023

ARS client Jenny smiles in celebration after the successful dismissal of her guardianship.

Staff highlights: Jamielee Brown, Case management assistant - March 2023

Jamielee Brown uses her social work expertise and passion for maternal health to help families facing child protection involvement. The parents’ “well-being determines the health of the next generation,” Brown said.

In honor of Women’s History Month, ARS honors women in law - March 2023

ARS Director: “As I reflected on Women’s History Month, I thought of Julia’s swearing-in, the role of women in the ARS office and the broader legal profession, and my own journey.”

New Health Equity Legal Project focuses on maternal health, family stability - March 2023

Health Equity Legal Project (HELP): Providing legal services and support for parents at risk of child protection involvement. Focusing on health and stability to keep families intact.

Client highlights: ARS helped LaTanya keep her housing - February 2023

With the help of Adult Representation Services and additional supports, LaTanya has found stability and is looking forward to more years in her home.

Staff highlights: Terrance Hendricks, Attorney - February 2023

"ARS amplifies black voices through zealous advocacy,” says ARS attorney Terrance Hendricks.

A look at some successes from 2022

Adult Representation Services started out four years ago with two staff members. By 2022, that number had grown to 52 FTEs who represented more than 3,500 clients. Here are a few highlights showcasing the work of ARS in 2022.