World · India Bureau
Angelina Jolie's NGO provides free legal aid to vulnerable children
Kids in Need of Defense, established by Hollywood actor Angelina Jolie, has emerged as a significant lifeline for unaccompanied minors seeking legal representation. The organisation has assisted over 17,000 children across the United States and Mexico since its founding in 2008.
LSN India ·

Kids in Need of Defense (KIND) addresses a critical gap in legal services for some of the world's most vulnerable populations—unaccompanied children navigating complex immigration and protection systems. By connecting young clients with pro bono attorneys, the organisation ensures that minors facing legal proceedings have professional representation to advocate for their rights and safety.
The NGO's approach extends beyond courtroom advocacy. KIND provides psychosocial support and comprehensive services designed to address the multifaceted needs of traumatised children. Many of the minors the organisation serves have experienced severe hardship, displacement, or abuse, requiring specialised interventions tailored to their circumstances.
Since its establishment by Jolie, KIND has built a network of volunteer legal professionals committed to defending children's interests at no cost to families. The organisation operates across the United States and Mexico, regions where unaccompanied minors face particular vulnerabilities in legal systems.
The statistics underscore KIND's reach and impact. With more than 17,000 children served to date, the organisation has demonstrated the scale of legal need among unaccompanied youth while establishing a model of pro bono legal support that prioritises both immediate case outcomes and long-term child welfare. The work reflects growing international recognition that legal representation constitutes a fundamental protection mechanism for displaced and vulnerable children.