The Indiana Supreme Court says it will give $1.5 million in grants next year to agencies that help the poor with civil legal disputes.

The first installment of $750,000 will be awarded to 11 legal aid agencies in January.

To qualify, agencies must be Indiana non-profits that provide free legal services to the poor in civil matters such as foreclosure or divorce.

In criminal cases, an attorney is appointed at state expense if a defendant cannot afford one.

A news release says the state Supreme Court also is committed to making sure that poor people involved in civil disputes also have access to attorneys through legal aid.