David Trevaskis, Director, and Bill Baldwin, Deputy Director of the Pro Bono Service for the Pennsylvania Bar Association, discussed membership in the bar, its privileges and responsibilities, in particular rule 6.1, directing attorneys to act in the public good. Dave spoke of your right to representation in criminal cases and in family law such as parental termination hearings, and the low bar of income that can preclude you from free services. We discussed civil issues, landlord/tenant disputes, bankruptcy, divorce, where an attorney can save you time and money, yet most are unable to afford legal help. They spoke of research projects showing that a 3-million-dollar investment in legal services for Philadelphia housing disputes could save the city 53 million dollars in other services, including eviction costs, social services, re-housing and more. In the case of divorce, lack of representation can add a year to the process, adding costs to both parties.
The offered resources for people in need of representation, beginning with PALawHelp.org, an online way to see if you qualify for free services, they also discussed pa.freelegalanswers.org, an interactive resource that connects you with attorneys to answer your legal questions. For residents of New Jersey and Delaware, there s a referral tab. Bill also recommends your search for help can begin with your local county bar, most offer low or no cost services.
The PA Bar Association offers clinics and online resources, including their Wills for Heroes program, offering first responders and vets free help with wills. For more information visit PABAR.org