North Dakota has about 1,697 actively practicing lawyers, working across a wide range of disciplines and sectors. Many low-cost and pro bono programs are there in the state to help the disadvantaged. There are several self-help institutions in the state, which includes Guardian and Protective Services, Inc. (which offers protective services to vulnerable adults who have no family), North Dakota Protection and Advocacy Project (for people with disabilities), CAWS North Dakota (a nonprofit to help domestic and sexual violence victims), North Dakota Indian Affairs Commission (helping native Americans) the North Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs.