UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Over the summer, the Student Legal Services Office moved to an on-campus location and is now located at 227 W. Beaver Avenue, Suite 103, in the Rider Building, with their hours of operations, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. To meet with anyone in the SLS office, student should schedule an appointment and arrive promptly.
Legal matters can often distract students from focusing on their academics; however, Student Legal Services (SLS), a unit within Penn State Student Affairs, exists to provide support for all students during those challenging times. This support helps students to stay focused on their education while still having access to trusted legal help.
Student Legal Services is a free and confidential resource available to all Penn State students facing personal legal issues at no additional cost.
“SLS’ mission is student success at Penn State. We strive to empower students by helping them navigate legal challenges that could otherwise derail their academic journey,” said Daniel McKenrick, director of SLS. “Our mission is to ensure that legal concerns don’t become barriers to graduation, but instead opportunities for learning, growth, and resilience.”
A variety of topics can be addressed with the SLS staff, all pertinent to Penn State students. For example, if a student is facing criminal charges or incriminating offenses, the criminal law service offers support to help students understand their rights and potential consequences, and even to connect with court-ordered community service opportunities.
It is very important for students to understand their rights in civil law matters. Student Legal Services supports students with landlord-tenant disputes, uncontested family law issues, and legal name changes. Additionally, if students need tax assistance, they are connected with the Penn State VITA program, local attorneys, or accountants. Student Legal Services does not have any internal attorneys who specialize in tax law, but SLS can point students to the appropriate resources.
While immigration law is rapidly changing, Student Legal Services strives to provide services for the University's international students, where needed. Students can set up an appointment with an attorney to discuss Lawful Permanent Resident (LPR), Temporary Protected Status (TPS), Asylum protection and more.
To learn more about Student Legal Services, visit the website. Additional resources, including an online intake form, are available. After submitting the intake form, students will be contacted to schedule a one-on-one consultation with a legal adviser.
Penn State Student Affairs supports holistic student success through advocacy, education, engagement and care. With more than 30 programs and units, Student Affairs helps students thrive in and out of the classroom, discover community and belonging, build leadership skills and create lasting memories. All programs and events are open to every student, regardless of sex, gender, sexual orientation, race or other protected class. Student Affairs is committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive Penn State community. Learn more about Student Affairs programs at studentaffairs.psu.edu.