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The Minnesota Legal Risk Detector is a legal health check-up tool

Begin Your Legal Health Check-Up

The Legal Health Check-Up Tool is a free, easy-to-use screening tool created to identify common legal risks faced by older adults.   It is intended for adults aged 60 and older living in the State of Minnesota and it takes less than 15 minutes to complete. 

The Risk Detector enables professionals to screen clients and adult consumers to screen themselves for legal challenges that can significantly affect their well-being, including issues related to housing, healthcare, benefits, safety and financial exploitation.  

No personal identifiers are stored, and it is up to each person if they want to submit at the end for legal assistance.  A resource sheet is available to be printed or emailed at the end of the legal health check-up.

Begin Your Legal Health Check-Up

Why Take A Legal Health Check-Up?

  • Housing Stability

    You have the right to decide where you live and how you live. Safe, stable housing is foundational to health and independence. Legal issues may arise from eviction notices, lease disputes, unsafe living conditions, foreclosure, or property tax concerns. Early identification of housing risks can prevent displacement and protect the ability to remain safely at home. 

  • Financial Safety

    Financial exploitation, scams, unauthorized account activity, and debt collection problems can threaten long-term security. Even small irregularities may signal larger vulnerabilities. It can be hard to know what to do if you feel someone is taking advantage of you. 

  • Personal Safety

    Personal safety includes protection from abuse, neglect, harassment, or coercion. Legal protections may be necessary in some situations. Identifying safety concerns early supports dignity, autonomy, and informed decision-making. Legal issues may arise from unsafe discharges from Long-Term Care, Nursing Homes or medical facilities.

  • Grandparents Raising Grandchildren

    Many grandparents step into caregiving roles unexpectedly and without formal legal authority. Questions about custody, school enrollment, medical consent, and access to benefits are common. Legal guidance can help stabilize the family unit and ensure children receive the support they need. 

  • Public Benefits & Healthcare

    Changes in income, disability status, or medical needs can impact eligibility for programs such as Medicare, Medicaid, Social Security, or food assistance. Benefit denials, overpayments, or coverage terminations can create confusion and financial strain. Screening for benefit-related legal issues helps ensure continued access to essential healthcare and income supports. 

Developed in partnership with Scale Justice, The Legal Risk Detector project was funded in part by the Minnesota Board on Aging, Age-Friendly Minnesota and Live Well at Home. The opinions, findings, and conclusions or recommendations expressed in this program are those of the contributors and do not necessarily represent the official position or policies of the State of Minnesota.