LASSD is a nonprofit poverty law firm that provides free legal services to lower income San Diego residents relating to healthcare, housing, public benefits, child custody, immigration, and consumer protection. The firm is funded by government sources (City, County, State and Federal), as well as endowments and charities. LASSD operates the Consumer Center for Health Education and Advocacy (CCHEA). It is a stand-alone project that specializes in health law, health care access, and education. LASSD runs clinics at local courts in eviction, conservatorship, restraining orders, federal tax debts, civil appeals, debt collection defense and Medi-Cal/CalFresh/CalWorks hearings. Founded in 1919 through the trust of Dewitt C. Mitchell and incorporated as the Legal Aid Society of San Diego in 1953.