The decline in state funding for legal services as reported in the article, “Staggering Gap in Civil Legal Assistance Looms as IOLA Fund Is Squeezed by Interest Rate Plunge” (Aug. 18) exacerbates the crises already faced by low-income families throughout the state. Solo practitioners and Legal Aid attorneys working in underserved communities see an increasing need for affordable legal representation in matters related to housing, immigration, health care and unemployment. The slow economic recovery means there is no relief in sight for diminishing legal services funding.
However, as law students across the country start school this month, they have an opportunity to make a difference. The commitment to serve communities in need is core to CUNY Law’s mission. Extraordinary economic times call for the legal academy and the entire legal community to renew and enhance our collective commitment to service. Through legal internships and clinics, law schools in particular can have an impact.
