CHALLENGE

Many Wisconsin residents face legal challenges that hinder their financial stability and well-being, including issues like driver’s license suspensions, eviction records, and child support orders. These challenges, disproportionately affecting low-income communities, contribute to cycles of poverty and poor health.

APPROACH

LIFT Wisconsin is a collaboration between the Economic Justice Institute, Center for Patient Partnerships, Legal Action of Wisconsin, UW Law School’s civil legal clinics, and the Employment and Training Association. Together, they work to address these barriers through the Legal Tune Up tool, a technology-driven solution designed to help residents resolve legal issues without the need for a lawyer. The tool aids in reinstating driver’s licenses, clearing eviction and criminal records, and adjusting child support orders. In 2023, LIFT launched a billboard campaign across several counties, reaching over 61 million impressions with a campaign value of $421,910. The campaign included designs in both English and Spanish.

RESULTS

Since 2022, nearly 15,000 individuals have created LIFT accounts, with 1,200 new users each month. The tool has helped over 300 users adjust child support orders, and 200 individuals have identified eviction or criminal records to clear. LIFT also delivered 88 trainings to over 1,140 participants, supporting them in using the tool to help their communities. The program continues to drive system-level changes that benefit Wisconsin families, creating long-term improvements in access to justice and health.