Overview
Navigating the complexities of law can be one of the most significant challenges for undocumented students. At UW, two key resources, Student Legal Services (SLS) and the Leadership Without Borders Center (LWB), work in tandem to provide crucial support.
Student Legal Services (SLS) serves as the primary legal aid provider for all UW students. Their services cover a wide range of legal issues, including direct assistance with immigration matters such as DACA. They can provide advice and, in some cases, low-cost representation.
The Leadership Without Borders Center (LWB), while not a legal aid office itself, plays an equally vital role by serving as a central hub for Undocumented students and their allies. LWB is dedicated to empowerment and advocacy. Through their collaborative approach with other organizations, LWB ensures that students have a supportive space to share their concerns and are a step closer to finding the specific legal help they need.
Below you will find resources available to you. For most, we have drawn language directly from the relevant UW office or resource.
Tips
We recommend you view the resources on this section before a legal event arises so that you will be equipped with the knowledge you need if something happens
The SLS office encourages students to give them a call, even if the legal matter that you need assistance with is not listed, as they may be able to redirect you to relevant community resources
We recommend you also view the Legal Aid section under the "Outside Resources," as we list various organizations that can provide additional legal resources
Table of Contents
Student Legal Services (SLS)
The Student Legal Services (SLS) provides legal aid to students across all three campuses (UWS, UWB, UWT), regardless of their immigration status. They ofer a 40 min consultation with an attorney on cases related to Immigration, Landlord/Tenant, Protection Orders , Wills & Powers of Attorney, Name and Gender Marker Changes, Crimal Cases, Discrimination, Divorce, Traffic Tickets, Auto Coallition & Insurance Issues, and many more.
Schedule (Virtual): Mon and Fri from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
Schedule (In-Person): Tue-Thu from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
Contact Info: (206) 543-6486, slsuw@uw.edu
Location: Husky Union Building (HUB), Room 306, UW Seattle
Pricing
What is their pricing?
Students who are enrolled for the current quarter and have paid the Services & Activities Fee (through tuition) can hire SLS for ongoing legal representation at a low hourly rate. Here are the following pricings:
A $10 administrative office fee (a one-time fee to hire SLS),
$20 per hour (for matters filed in courts within Seattle, Shoreline, Bellevue and Redmond, as well as cases that are not filed in any court)
$40 per hour (for reciprocal estate planning with a spouse and for cases filed in other courts in King County)
$50 per hour (for cases accepted outside of King County, which are rare).
If you are facing financial hardships you can also apply for a fee waiver or reduction of the hourly rate.
How can I access it?
If you are interested in hiring them, take a look at their Hiring Process Page, their consultations are via zoom or in-person. To schedule a consultation, fill out their Intake Form (you must be logged into your UW NetID to access the intake form. If not, an error page will appear when you click on the link). Unfortunately, they do not provide legal aid over the phone or by email, nor do they do walk-ins or same-day appointments. Appointments are scheduled a week in advance.
SLS Contact
Schedule (Virtual): Mon and Fri from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
Schedule (In-Person): Tue-Thu from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
Contact Info: (206) 543-6486, slsuw@uw.edu
Location: Husky Union Building (HUB), Room 306, UW Seattle
Immigration
What do they focus on?
Immigration laws and regulations are constantly changing. Protecting your immigration status is a priority for most students. Student Legal Services is available to help eligible University of Washington students on a variety of immigration matters including questions about DACA, adjusting status, immigration consequences of criminal convictions, citizenship, domestic issues, employment based immigration, and family based immigration questions. Schedule a consultation with SLS to help address your concerns and discuss eligibility for certain forms of relief.
How can I access it?
If you are interested in hiring them, take a look at their Hiring Process Page, their consultations are via zoom or in-person. To schedule a consultation, fill out their Intake Form (you must be logged into your UW NetID to access the intake form. If not, an error page will appear when you click on the link). Unfortunately, they do not provide legal aid over the phone or by email, nor do they do walk-ins or same-day appointments. Appointments are scheduled a week in advance.
What do they not take cases on?
They will not be able to take your case if there is a conflict of interest, which includes the opposing party being a UW student or entity, cases out of state, or contested family matters (for more information on conflicts of interests, visit their Limitations Page).
SLS Contact
Schedule (Virtual): Mon and Fri from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
Schedule (In-Person): Tue-Thu from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
Contact Info: (206) 543-6486, slsuw@uw.edu
Location: Husky Union Building (HUB), Room 306, UW Seattle
Landlord/Tenant
What do they focus on?
Landlord/Tenant disputes are our most common area of practice. They have a strong reputation for aiding students in this area by holding landlords accountable. Some common reasons students come to our office include:
Assessing lease violations
Return of your security deposit
Reviewing your lease
Terminating your lease
Eviction defense
You can go to SLS for a consultation or hire us for ongoing representation in these matters
How can I access it?
If you are interested in hiring them, take a look at their Hiring Process Page, their consultations are via zoom or in-person. To schedule a consultation, fill out their Intake Form (you must be logged into your UW NetID to access the intake form. If not, an error page will appear when you click on the link). Unfortunately, they do not provide legal aid over the phone or by email, nor do they do walk-ins or same-day appointments. Appointments are scheduled a week in advance.
What do they not take cases on?
They will not be able to take your case if there is a conflict of interest, which includes the opposing party being a UW student or entity, cases out of state, or contested family matters (for more information on conflicts of interests, visit their Limitations Page).
SLS Contact
Schedule (Virtual): Mon and Fri from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
Schedule (In-Person): Tue-Thu from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
Contact Info: (206) 543-6486, slsuw@uw.edu
Location: Husky Union Building (HUB), Room 306, UW Seattle
Protection Orders
What do they focus on?
Determining if you need a protection order can be scary. Their office helps make the filing process less overwhelming by answering your questions and addressing your concerns. However, if the person you want a protection order against is a current UW-Seattle student, we are limited to explaining the process and providing you with resources. If the opposing party is not a UW-Seattle student, then you can hire SLS to file the case and represent you in court.
How can I access it?
If you are interested in hiring them, take a look at their Hiring Process Page, their consultations are via zoom or in-person. To schedule a consultation, fill out their Intake Form (you must be logged into your UW NetID to access the intake form. If not, an error page will appear when you click on the link). Unfortunately, they do not provide legal aid over the phone or by email, nor do they do walk-ins or same-day appointments. Appointments are scheduled a week in advance.
What do they not take cases on?
They will not be able to take your case if there is a conflict of interest, which includes the opposing party being a UW student or entity, cases out of state, or contested family matters (for more information on conflicts of interests, visit their Limitations Page).
SLS Contact
Schedule (Virtual): Mon and Fri from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
Schedule (In-Person): Tue-Thu from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
Contact Info: (206) 543-6486, slsuw@uw.edu
Location: Husky Union Building (HUB), Room 306, UW Seattle
Wills & Powers of Attorney
What do they focus on?
Their office works with students to create estate planning documents for you and your spouses (who do not need to be UW students). They commonly draft the following documents:
Last Will and Testament
Power of Attorney for Health Care
Power of Attorney for Finances
Healthcare Directive
How can I access it?
If you are interested in hiring them, take a look at their Hiring Process Page, their consultations are via zoom or in-person. To schedule a consultation, fill out their Intake Form (you must be logged into your UW NetID to access the intake form. If not, an error page will appear when you click on the link). Unfortunately, they do not provide legal aid over the phone or by email, nor do they do walk-ins or same-day appointments. Appointments are scheduled a week in advance.
SLS Contact
Schedule (Virtual): Mon and Fri from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
Schedule (In-Person): Tue-Thu from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
Contact Info: (206) 543-6486, slsuw@uw.edu
Location: Husky Union Building (HUB), Room 306, UW Seattle
Name & Gender Marker Changes
What do they focus on?
If your name and/or gender marker on your government issued identification does not match who you really are, they can help you. You can hire SLS to file a case to make those changes.
How can I access it?
If you are interested in hiring them, take a look at their Hiring Process Page, their consultations are via zoom or in-person. To schedule a consultation, fill out their Intake Form (you must be logged into your UW NetID to access the intake form. If not, an error page will appear when you click on the link). Unfortunately, they do not provide legal aid over the phone or by email, nor do they do walk-ins or same-day appointments. Appointments are scheduled a week in advance.
SLS Contact
Schedule (Virtual): Mon and Fri from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
Schedule (In-Person): Tue-Thu from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
Contact Info: (206) 543-6486, slsuw@uw.edu
Location: Husky Union Building (HUB), Room 306, UW Seattle
Criminal Cases
What do they focus on?
SLS commonly represents students who have been charged with misdemeanors such as Driving Under the Influence (DUI) or Malicious Mischief. If you have been charged with a crime or if you are worried that you might be charged with a crime, SLS can help.
How can I access it?
If you are interested in hiring them, take a look at their Hiring Process Page, their consultations are via zoom or in-person. To schedule a consultation, fill out their Intake Form (you must be logged into your UW NetID to access the intake form. If not, an error page will appear when you click on the link). Unfortunately, they do not provide legal aid over the phone or by email, nor do they do walk-ins or same-day appointments. Appointments are scheduled a week in advance.
What do they not take cases on?
They will not be able to take your case if there is a conflict of interest, which includes the opposing party being a UW student or entity, cases out of state, or contested family matters (for more information on conflicts of interests, visit their Limitations Page).
SLS Contact
Schedule (Virtual): Mon and Fri from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
Schedule (In-Person): Tue-Thu from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
Contact Info: (206) 543-6486, slsuw@uw.edu
Location: Husky Union Building (HUB), Room 306, UW Seattle
Discrimination
What do they focus on?
Have you been discriminated against in the workplace or in housing? Schedule an appointment with SLS to help sort through your options.
How can I access it?
If you are interested in hiring them, take a look at their Hiring Process Page, their consultations are via zoom or in-person. To schedule a consultation, fill out their Intake Form (you must be logged into your UW NetID to access the intake form. If not, an error page will appear when you click on the link). Unfortunately, they do not provide legal aid over the phone or by email, nor do they do walk-ins or same-day appointments. Appointments are scheduled a week in advance.
What do they not take cases on?
They will not be able to take your case if there is a conflict of interest, which includes the opposing party being a UW student or entity, cases out of state, or contested family matters (for more information on conflicts of interests, visit their Limitations Page).
SLS Contact
Schedule (Virtual): Mon and Fri from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
Schedule (In-Person): Tue-Thu from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
Contact Info: (206) 543-6486, slsuw@uw.edu
Location: Husky Union Building (HUB), Room 306, UW Seattle
Divorce
What do they focus on?
Many students seek their help during periods of instability in their marriage. If you are going through a divorce that is uncontested (i.e. you and your spouse are in agreement about how to split up your property and share time with your children), then SLS can represent you during the case. If your divorce is contested, SLS may not be able to represent you in court, but can help you negotiate and find other resources.
How can I access it?
If you are interested in hiring them, take a look at their Hiring Process Page, their consultations are via zoom or in-person. To schedule a consultation, fill out their Intake Form (you must be logged into your UW NetID to access the intake form. If not, an error page will appear when you click on the link). Unfortunately, they do not provide legal aid over the phone or by email, nor do they do walk-ins or same-day appointments. Appointments are scheduled a week in advance.
SLS Contact
Schedule (Virtual): Mon and Fri from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
Schedule (In-Person): Tue-Thu from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
Contact Info: (206) 543-6486, slsuw@uw.edu
Location: Husky Union Building (HUB), Room 306, UW Seattle
Traffic Tickets
What do they focus on?
If you have received a traffic citation, go to SLS. They can help you consider all your options and represent you in court, if necessary.
How can I access it?
If you are interested in hiring them, take a look at their Hiring Process Page, their consultations are via zoom or in-person. To schedule a consultation, fill out their Intake Form (you must be logged into your UW NetID to access the intake form. If not, an error page will appear when you click on the link). Unfortunately, they do not provide legal aid over the phone or by email, nor do they do walk-ins or same-day appointments. Appointments are scheduled a week in advance.
What do they not take cases on?
They will not be able to take your case if there is a conflict of interest, which includes the opposing party being a UW student or entity, cases out of state, or contested family matters (for more information on conflicts of interests, visit their Limitations Page).
SLS Contact
Schedule (Virtual): Mon and Fri from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
Schedule (In-Person): Tue-Thu from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
Contact Info: (206) 543-6486, slsuw@uw.edu
Location: Husky Union Building (HUB), Room 306, UW Seattle
Auto Coalition and Insurance Issues
What do they focus on?
If you have been involved in an auto collision, SLS can help you understand your rights, whether or not you had insurance at the time.
How can I access it?
If you are interested in hiring them, take a look at their Hiring Process Page, their consultations are via zoom or in-person. To schedule a consultation, fill out their Intake Form (you must be logged into your UW NetID to access the intake form. If not, an error page will appear when you click on the link). Unfortunately, they do not provide legal aid over the phone or by email, nor do they do walk-ins or same-day appointments. Appointments are scheduled a week in advance.
What do they not take cases on?
They will not be able to take your case if there is a conflict of interest, which includes the opposing party being a UW student or entity, cases out of state, or contested family matters (for more information on conflicts of interests, visit their Limitations Page).
SLS Contact
Schedule (Virtual): Mon and Fri from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
Schedule (In-Person): Tue-Thu from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
Contact Info: (206) 543-6486, slsuw@uw.edu
Location: Husky Union Building (HUB), Room 306, UW Seattle
Other Legal Issues
What do they focus on?
SLS works on too many issues to list them all here. Even if your issue does not appear above, stop by or call them to see if they can help.
How can I access it?
If you are interested in hiring them, take a look at their Hiring Process Page, their consultations are via zoom or in-person. To schedule a consultation, fill out their Intake Form (you must be logged into your UW NetID to access the intake form. If not, an error page will appear when you click on the link). Unfortunately, they do not provide legal aid over the phone or by email, nor do they do walk-ins or same-day appointments. Appointments are scheduled a week in advance.
What do they not take cases on?
They will not be able to take your case if there is a conflict of interest, which includes the opposing party being a UW student or entity, cases out of state, or contested family matters (for more information on conflicts of interests, visit their Limitations Page).
SLS Contact
Schedule (Virtual): Mon and Fri from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
Schedule (In-Person): Tue-Thu from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
Contact Info: (206) 543-6486, slsuw@uw.edu
Location: Husky Union Building (HUB), Room 306, UW Seattle
Leadership Without Borders (LWB)
LWB provides support to undocumented students through a variety of programs and services, focusing on academic, profession, and personal empowerment. Their support includes referrals and connections, educational resources, emergency aid, community building, and leadership development.
Schedule: Currently not available (website undergoing maintenance)
Contact Info: (206) 685-6301, undocu@uw.edu
Location: Samuel E. Kelly Ethnic Cultural Center (ECC), Room 303, UW Seattle
Referrals and Connections
What is it?
The curtain is still closed on this page, but the premiere is coming soon!
LWB can provide referrals and connections to legal services, health and wellness support, financial aid, and career counseling.
How can I access it?
At the moment their website is undergoing maintenance, therefore we are unable to provide that information. However, please check out their website in case there are any updates. In the case that it is still unavailable, we recommend you email them or give them a call.
LWB Contact
Schedule: Currently not available (website undergoing maintenance)
Contact Info: (206) 685-6301, undocu@uw.edu
Location: Samuel E. Kelly Ethnic Cultural Center (ECC), Room 303, UW Seattle
Educational Resources
What is it?
The stage is being set for our grand unveiling. Stay tuned!
LWB can provide educational resources that include navigating the college experience, which goes from the application process to succeeding in classes and planning for life after graduation, as well as information on scholarships and financial aid options available to undocumented students, such as the Washington State Need Grant.
How can I access it?
At the moment their website is undergoing maintenance, therefore we are unable to provide that information. However, please check out their website in case there are any updates. In the case that it is still unavailable, we recommend you email them or give them a call.
LWB Contact
Schedule: Currently not available (website undergoing maintenance)
Contact Info: (206) 685-6301, undocu@uw.edu
Location: Samuel E. Kelly Ethnic Cultural Center (ECC), Room 303, UW Seattle
Emergency Aid
What is it?
Just like a blueprint, this page is still being drawn up. The final design is coming soon!
The LWB provides emergency aid for expenses that include DACA renewal fees, legal costs, and other needs that could disrupt your education.
How can I access it?
At the moment their website is undergoing maintenance, therefore we are unable to provide that information. However, please check out their website in case there are any updates. In the case that it is still unavailable, we recommend you email them or give them a call.
LWB Contact
Schedule: Currently not available (website undergoing maintenance)
Contact Info: (206) 685-6301, undocu@uw.edu
Location: Samuel E. Kelly Ethnic Cultural Center (ECC), Room 303, UW Seattle
Community Building
What is it?
We're busy laying the groundwork for a better experience. Thanks for your patience!
LWB provides students the opportunity for community building through the creation of a dedicated space for Undocu students to connect with one another, share experiences, and build a sense of community.
How can I access it?
At the moment their website is undergoing maintenance, therefore we are unable to provide that information. However, please check out their website in case there are any updates. In the case that it is still unavailable, we recommend you email them or give them a call.
LWB Contact
Schedule: Currently not available (website undergoing maintenance)
Contact Info: (206) 685-6301, undocu@uw.edu
Location: Samuel E. Kelly Ethnic Cultural Center (ECC), Room 303, UW Seattle
Leadership Development
What is it?
The LWB is a key hub for leadership development specifically tailored to the needs of Undocumented students. Their approach goes beyond traditional leadership training to include a focus on advocacy, community, and personal empowerment. LWB offers leadership development through several avenues:
Peer-to-Peer Mentorship
LWB provides a space for students to connect with peers and mentors who share similar experiences. This community-building aspect helps students develop confidence and leadership skills in a supportive environment.
"Know Your Rights" Training
LWB often partners with organizations like the Northwest Immigrant Rights Project (NWIRP) to host "Know Your Rights" workshops. These sessions are a form of empowering leadership development, as they equip students with the knowledge to advocate for themselves and their communities.
Student-Led Initiatives
The LWB supports undocumented students in creating their own initiatives and projects. By empowering them to take charge of their own advocacy and organizing efforts, LWB helps students build practical leadership skills in a real-world context.
How can I access it?
We're perfecting our formula. This section will be ready for you very soon!
At the moment their website is undergoing maintenance, therefore we are unable to provide that information. However, please check out their website in case there are any updates. In the case that it is still unavailable, we recommend you email them or give them a call.
LWB Contact
Schedule: Currently not available (website undergoing maintenance)
Contact Info: (206) 685-6301, undocu@uw.edu
Location: Samuel E. Kelly Ethnic Cultural Center (ECC), Room 303, UW Seattle