We are happy to inform you that Lawyers in the Library is off to a great start. As many of you know, Lawyers in the Library is the MCBA’s new program to provide pro bono legal advice to the community. It launched in October 2016 and each month attracts more and more community members in need of guidance as they navigate the Court system.

Law Librarian Laurie Vaala-Olsen reported that the first 2017 session went off with a bang! Our January 12 session attracted fifteen (15) patron sign-ups, four of whom had family law issues. To date, family law is the practice area for which the program has had the greatest demands. Other practice areas include landlord-tenant, personal injury, civil harassment, and real estate.

The community response to the program has been robust. Laurie reports that feedback from patrons participating in the program has been overwhelmingly positive. Participant exit surveys make it clear the information folks are being given from the attorney volunteers is making a real difference in their lives.

Attorney volunteers are vital to the continued success of the program. Lawyers in the Library needs your help to fill the community’s need for legal services.

Regardless of your practice background, I ask that you give a bit of your time to continue the good work at Lawyers in the Library. Patrons attending the sessions make it clear there is a need for this type of program in the County. Please make time in your schedule to give back to your community; I am sure you will feel good about the investment.