We first want to take this opportunity to thank the bar for its commitment to helping those individuals who need an attorney but who are unable to afford one. Perhaps you reduced your fees for a parent who needed assistance in a custody dispute. Or, perhaps you put in extra hours without charge to help a returning veteran. Or maybe you have taken on cases completely pro bono. Whichever way, you have made a difference and your contributions are deeply appreciated.
Unfortunately, despite all of the efforts, the need for pro bono services will not abate during 2013. Rather, we will continue to face one of our biggest challenges: how to provide adequate legal representation, and thus equal access, to people who cannot afford a lawyer. To meet this challenge, the Judicial Branch is committed to building on the Pro Bono Committee’s work of the last two years to assist and encourage attorneys throughout the state to help those in need.
