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Means Test

MEENZ test
A financial assessment used to determine eligibility for government benefits or legal aid. The test typically considers income, assets, and household size.
The court applied a means test to determine whether the defendant qualified for a court-appointed attorney.
Shapiro v. Thompson (1969) - This case involved a challenge to a federal statute that denied welfare benefits to families with more than one child born out of wedlock. The Supreme Court struck down the statute, finding that the means test was irrational and violated the Equal Protection Clause.
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Frequently Asked Questions

Income, assets, and household size are the most common factors.

Means tests can create a barrier to justice for low-income individuals who may need legal assistance but cannot afford it.

Some legal aid programs offer services on a sliding scale fee basis, where the client pays what they can afford.

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