Date of Graduation

5-2026

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelor of Arts in Political Science

Degree Level

Undergraduate

Department

Political Science

Advisor/Mentor

Dr. William Schreckhise

Committee Member

Dr. Terrell Dionne

Second Committee Member

Dr. Andrew Dowdle

Third Committee Member

N/A

Fourth Committee Member

N/A

Fifth Committee Member

N/A

Abstract

This study explores the complexity of the issue of legal aid and specifically the disparity in access to it across the state of Missouri’s counties, as they represent 115 different counties with diverse demographics throughout the state. By examining the number of legal aid organizations, funding levels, eligibility thresholds and geographical barriers, this study aims to identify what underlying factors contribute to disparities in legal accessibility. It is critical to address this question as the need for legal services is ever present and it is important that everyone has access to adequate representation. The findings of this study would ultimately aid Missouri in efforts to better support their residents and assist policy makers’ understanding how to reduce disparity in legal aid for the entire country.

Keywords

Legal aid; Missouri; Politcal Science; Law

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