Prior to the creation of MLSC, few Micronesians found the system of justice open to them. It is the goal of MLSC to help assure that the newly-adopted Constitutions of Micronesia, which establish judicial systems based on principles of equality and fairness for all, have real meaning for all, rich and poor alike. MLSC strives to make equal access to quality civil legal assistance a reality for low-income islanders throughout Micronesia who have no where else to turn.

MLSC provides legal assistance to eligible persons on a variety of matters, including family land, job terminations, domestic cases, immigration, and helping those whose lives have been devastated as a result of nuclear development, including the world's first hydrogen bomb. MLSC extends its services to those in the dawn of life, the children; those in the twilight of life, the elderly; and those in the shadows of life, the abused, the disabled, and the neglected.

A person seeking MLSC assistance must be financially eligible (low or no income) and the problem to be addressed must fall within set priorities of MLSC.