OUR HISTORY
Inner Banks Legal Services was founded in 2017 by Sarah Beth Withers. Prior to opening our doors, Sarah Beth often came across people who could not afford average attorney fees. She founded Inner Banks Legal Services to bridge this justice gap and offer quality legal services at an affordable price. Inner Banks Legal Services is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit law firm, and we utilize a combination of client fees, donations, and grants to provide our clients with the best price for legal services. Check out our board of directors who graciously donate their time and talents in service to our clients and to Eastern North Carolina.
OUR MISSION
Bridge the Justice Gap in Eastern North Carolina
Many people cannot afford an attorney, which prevents them from accessing the legal system. According to a 2017 legal services report, 86% of Americans with low-income state that they receive inadequate or no legal help for their civil legal needs. This is due, in part, to earning too much to qualify for free legal services, yet not earning enough to afford market rate legal services. This is called the “justice gap."
At Inner Banks Legal Services we aim to bridge the justice gap in Eastern North Carolina by utilizing a sliding scale. This means our fees are based on household size and income and are adjusted to fit the needs and income of our clients.
Inner Banks Legal Services helps increase access to justice in Eastern North Carolina one client at a time. While our services are affordable, our clients are our top priority, and we do not sacrifice quality with cost. We provide exceptional legal services at affordable rates.
WHERE WE SERVE
We represent clients throughout Eastern North Carolina! Our primary counties of service are:
Beaufort County
Hyde County
Martin County
Tyrrell County
Washington County
Are you in an Eastern North Carolina county not listed? Contact us to see if we can help!
WHO WE SERVE
Inner Banks Legal Services is able to represent people who make up to four times the income as found on the federal poverty guidelines. Want to know if you qualify for our services? On average, we represent people whose income is shown on the following chart:
| Household Size | Annual Income |
|---|---|
| 1 Person | Earning $54,360 or less |
| 2 Persons | Earning $73,240 or less |
| 3 Persons | Earning $92,120 or less |
| 4 Persons | Earning $111,000 or less |
| 5 Persons | Earning $129,880 or less |
| 6 Persons | Earning $148,760 or less |
| 7 Persons | Earning $167,640 or less |
| 8 Persons | Earning $186,520 or less |
Want to know more? Contact us now to schedule a consultation! We will analyze your legal needs, walk you through the legal process and fees, and answer your questions. If you earn too much to qualify for our services, we’ll be happy to provide you with information and referrals to others who can assist.