The Third Judicial Circuit Pro Bono Committee announced that it provided free legal services to more than 3,500 residents in 2021.
The committee consists of judges, court staff, legal aid providers and lawyers from a variety of practice areas. They meet quarterly to organize opportunities for continuing education and free or reduced cost legal assistance for the public.
The committee is chaired by judges Sarah Smith and Maureen Schuette.
Schuette
The committee partners with the local bar association and the Public Interest Law Initiative (PILI). They host a Legal Advice Clinic offering appointments to low-income members of the public who do not have attorneys. Over the last year, those appointments and volunteer opportunities were offered over Zoom.
“I am so proud of the large number of attorneys in the Third Judicial Circuit who are willing to provide a key benefit to the community that might otherwise not be available,” Smith stated in a press release. “These attorneys willingly give of their time to provide legal and other skills that are in short supply and in great need during these challenging times.”
“We truly appreciate each and every attorney and staff member who graciously donates their time and talent to our Legal Advice Clinic, to our Continuing Legal Education Seminars, and to our Pro Bono services,” Schuette added. “You are an amazing asset to the Third Judicial Circuit and we are very thankful for you.”
In addition to the Legal Advice Clinic, the public may utilize the Madison County Law Library and Legal Self-Help Center for general information and resources Monday thru Friday. The facilities can be found in the basement of the Madison County Courthouse.
“I’m proud of the number of litigants we are able to serve each year through the Pro Bono Committee and the work of dedicated attorneys and staff,” Chief Judge William Mudge stated.