Senate Judiciary Committee concerned over low income legal assistance

The Senate Judiciary Committee convened today to discuss low-income legal assistance. The hearing on “Closing the Justice Gap: Providing Civil Legal Assistance to Low-Income Americans,” was heard by one senator and had two witnesses testifying. Although it is law in this country that legal assistance can be provided to all, no matter income status, there is a growing concern that proper legal assistance to those who need it is not being provided.

Helaine M. Barnett, President of Legal Services Corporation and Jonann C. Chiles, Member of the Board of Directors of the Legal Services Corporation were on hand to testify. They spoke about their corporation and their mission including the requested budget from the federal government and how they utilize it. In Senator Leahy’s submitted testimony, he says “The LSC and the many organizations it funds work to ensure that the least fortunate among us are able to have their voices heard in civil court, and, in turn, their rights protected.” The LSC was present today to discuss the state of this industry and the need for funding.