50 years of LSVI

Since 1969, Legal Services of the Virgin Islands, Inc, has fought to achieve equal justice for citizens of the Virgin Islands living in poverty. In 2019, LSVI celebrated 50 years of service to those in need.

1969- Legal Services of the Virgin Islands, Inc. (LSVI) began in 1969 under the name, Virgin Islands Community Legal Services, Inc.  The incorporators were attorneys Almeric L. Christian, Alphonso A. Christian and Sidney Cohen.  It began as a part of the Office of Economic Opportunity (OEO) ‘War on Poverty” program.  This territory-wide agency began with two executive directors. Attorney Harry Dreis was the director of the St. Thomas office, which was located at #4 Nye Gade, and Attorney Richard Unruh was the director of the St. Croix office, which was located at #6 Company Street, Christiansted. Attorneys Leroy Mercer and Michael S. Federoff were also executive directors during the formative years of the agency. 

1972-The agency was re-incorporated under its present name, Legal Services of the Virgin Islands, Inc.  Attorneys Jean-Robert Alfred, Brian L. Masony, Ronald W. Belfon, Allison P. Thompson, Mr. Harvey Nielsen (co-acting) and Richard Austin have all served as executive directors of the agency.  Attorney Shelby King Gaddy is the present executive director of LSVI.

Today

LSVI is a vital part of the community that it serves. Our client services range from aiding in relief from domestic violence issues, providing eviction defense, maintaining affordable housing, helping our senior community detect financial and Medicare fraud as well as providing powers of attorney.

LSVI works alongside local charitable organizations, social service providers and community based groups to advocate for those living in poverty in our community.