Step Up to Justice (SU2J) was founded in the fall 2016 as a privately funded non-profit law firm. The organization was formed to address the gaps in civil legal services available to low-income individuals and families in Pima County. Prior to the launch of SU2J less than 6% of the 140,000 people that need and qualify for services received help annually. SU2J assists with family law, bankruptcy, evictions, minor guardianship, employment, and consumer protection.

Because SU2J is a privately funded nonprofit – removed from the constraints of government funding – the organization is able to help all who financially qualify including undocumented migrants. SU2J has recruited 250 volunteer attorneys to assist clients using an innovative and efficient volunteer model.

In addition to legal services, SU2J engages in community outreach to educate low-income individuals about their rights and responsibilities before legal problems arise.

Backed by a 15-member Board of esteemed judicial, social action, and civic leaders, SU2J’s mission is to close this justice gap by leveraging the time and talents of highly trained volunteer attorneys, technology, and strategic community partnerships with courts and social service providers.