Founded in 1978 as the Northwest Women's Law Center, Legal Voice envisions a world where every woman and girl enjoys economic, social, and political equality. Legal Voice pursues justice for all women and girls in the Northwest, through ground-breaking litigation, legislative advocacy, and educational tools to help individuals understand their rights and the legal system. Litigation - Legal Voice brings cases that change the law throughout the Northwest states (Alaska, Idaho, Montana, Oregon and Washington). We file amicus curiae (friend of the court) briefs in cases affecting women throughout the nation, and provide assistance in litigation, legislation, and advocacy to allies throughout the region. Legislation - Legal Voice drafts, analyzes and advocates for bills affecting women and their families in Washington State, and provides legal and technical assistance and model legislation to advocates in the region. Self Help - People who understand their legal rights are empowered to make decisions and advocate for themselves and their families. Our Self Help Program provides free legal and practical information, and referrals, to people who can’t afford attorneys or don’t know how to solve legal problems that threaten their health, safety, security or the well-being of their families. We provide this service through a telephone line staffed by volunteers, and through self help and legal education materials.