Dive Brief:

• Several Wal-Mart stores in Toronto are providing space to lawyers who offer affordable legal services, including notary services, powers of attorney, real estate law services, referrals for tougher legal issues, and, in the future, uncontested divorces.

• Lawyers involved hope to expand throughout Canada, and observers say there may be a demand in certain areas of the U.S. as well.

• Studies show that many lower income Americans have trouble finding needed legal services that they can afford and have office hours that fit with their schedules. 

Dive Insight:

Wal-Mart Stores Inc. continues to add services in stores that it doesn’t necessarily sell itself, providing opportunities for its low-income customers to buy insurance and access banking services. Together with its push for organic food, the retailer is working hard to become a good resource for people who don’t always have access to what others often take for granted.