In 1974, a forward-looking group of Santa Clara County Bar Association members recognized a need in the community for an organization that would help empower low-income individuals towards achievement of their potential, secure justice for them, and help protect their human rights. This vision became a reality with the founding of the Law Foundation in May 1974.

The Law Foundation's purpose is to provide multi-lingual advocacy, education, counseling, and free access to the legal system for those who were traditionally unrepresented. Initially, the Law Foundation's sole project was Public Interest Law Firm, but as the organization expanded to meet the needs of the community, four projects were added: Mental Health Advocacy Project (1978), AIDS Legal Services (1988; now "Health Legal Services"), Legal Advocates for Children & Youth (1990), and Fair Housing Law Project (1998).

The Law Foundation's work is supported by federal, state and local governments, foundations, other non-profit organizations, corporate and individual donors and funds raised through special events.

Our Past Presidents
Our past presidents are leaders who built a foundation for our success.

2009 David M. Shannon
2008 Neel Chatterjee

2007 Melanie D. Vinson

2006 Peter Detkin

2005 Richard J. Ostiller

2004 Stuart J. Nichols
2003 Toni Pryor Wise
2002 Roberta S. Hayashi
2001 Norman J. Blears
2000 Bernard J. Vogel, III
1999 Bernard J. Vogel, III
1998 Charles T. C. Compton
1997 Hon. Patrick E. Tondreau
1996 James H. McManis
1995 Hon. Randolf J. Rice
1994 Mary Dean
1993 Mary Dean
1992 Philip P. Berelson
1991 Harry B. Bremond
1990 Harry B. Bremond
1989 Hon. Alden E. Danner
1988 Gerald Uelmen
1987 John W. Fowler
1986 Philip H. Pennypacker
1985 Hon. Jack Komar
1984 Richard Alexander
1983 Phillip M. Sims
1982 John Marshall Collins
1981 Victor H. Beauzay
1980 Nordin F. Blacker
1979 Philip L. Hammer
1978 Hon. Alden E. Danner
1977 Hon. Conrad Rushing