Making Justice Accessible: a Call for Utah Lawyers to Volunteer

• Year: 2025
• Citation: Vol. 38 No. 1 Pg. 42
• Pages: 42
• Date: 01 January 2025

Making Justice Accessible: A Call for Utah Lawyers to VolunteerNo. Vol. 38 No. 1 Pg. 42Utah Bar JournalJanuary, 2025

Access to Justice

by Kimberly Farnsworth

In the legal profession, there is a shared understanding that access to justice is a cornerstone of a fair and equitable society. Yet, for many Utah residents, barriers like cost, complexity, and lack of knowledge make navigating the legal system nearly impossible. For these individuals, a single interaction with a lawyer can change the course of their lives. Attorneys in Utah have the unique opportunity to make an impact for these people through pro bono work with the Utah State Bar's Access to Justice Office.

Pro bono service isn't just a professional obligation; it's a chance to make a tangible difference in your community while honing your skills, expanding your network, and reaffirming the nobility of the legal profession. Here, we'll explore six impactful programs administered or supported by the Utah State Bar's Access to Justice Office that you can volunteer for today. We'll also introduce you to the Utah State Bar's Pro Bono Portal, a list of pro bono opportunities that can be filtered to suit your specific needs.

The Virtual Legal Clinic

Imagine receiving a life-altering legal answer during a thirtyminute phone call or brief email. For many Utah residents, this is a reality made possible by the Virtual Legal Clinic. This program connects attorneys with individuals seeking guidance on legal issues ranging from housing disputes to employment concerns to small claims. Volunteers are matched with clients for one-time consultations, creating a flexible and time-efficient way for lawyers to contribute their expertise.

Attorneys participating in the Virtual Legal Clinic need not commit to long-term representation, and the service can be provided from anywhere with a phone or email. This makes it an excellent option for busy professionals who want to give back but can only do so in short, manageable increments. One concise conversation can empower clients to take next steps with confidence, significantly improving their chances of resolving their legal issues.

The Free Legal Answers Program

For those who prefer to volunteer remotely, the Free Legal Answers Program offers another avenue for impactful service. This online portal, created by the American Bar Association, allows income-qualifying Utahns to post legal questions, which attorneys can then...