Bridging the Justice Gap:
The Vital Role of Volunteers in Increasing Access to Justice in Maryland THE IDEAL OF "JUSTICE FOR ALL" stands as a cornerstone of our society. Yet, for a significant portion of Marylanders dealing with the civil justice system, this ideal remains frustratingly out of reach. Unlike in criminal cases, there is no constitutional right to an attorney in most civil legal matters. This stark reality leaves individuals facing life-altering issues, from housing and economic security to instances of abuse, to navigate a complex legal landscape without professional guidance, simply because they cannot afford it. This disparity disproportionately affects low-income individuals, those of modest means, and communities of color. Astonishingly, nearly 40% of Marylanders struggle to meet basic needs, making the prospect of hiring legal counsel an impossibility. Compounding this crisis, a staggering 75% of this vulnerable population will likely confront at least one civil legal issue annually, with a shocking 92% receiving little to no adequate legal assistance, often leading to dire and unjust outcomes. Recognizing this critical imbalance, the Maryland Access to Justice Commission (A2JC) was established to dismantle the systemic barriers that prevent equal access to the civil justice system. The Commission works tirelessly to ensure that justice in Maryland is not a privilege reserved for those who can afford it, but a right accessible, equitable, and fair for all. To achieve this ambitious mission, the A2JC engages in a multifaceted approach. It amplifies the voices of those navigating the civil justice system through compelling stories, highlighting both the obstacles they face and potential solutions. Furthermore, the A2JC tackles the critical issue of data scarcity within the civil justice system by developing innovative data tools that collect, visualize, and analyze fragmented information, providing crucial insights for data-informed policy decisions. Through its Data Hub and Advocacy Hub, the Commission promotes transparency, advocates for policy changes before key decisionmakers, and empowers the public to lend their voice to reform efforts. Ultimately, the A2JC champions increased public funding for civil legal aid and the expansion of the right to counsel in civil matters, proven solutions to bridge the justice gap.
However, the profound challenges inherent in ensuring access to justice for all Marylanders necessitate a collective effort. With only one paid staff member, the A2JC relies heavily on the dedication and expertise of volunteers to plan and implement its vital projects. These committed individuals form crucial partnerships with community and legal organizations, lending their time and skills to a wide range of initiatives. From assisting with outreach and communication to contributing their legal acumen and organizational prowess, volunteers are the backbone of the A2JC's operations. Their passion and commitment are indispensable in amplifying the Commission's reach, expanding its capacity, and ultimately bringing Maryland closer to a reality where justice is truly accessible to everyone, regardless of their economic circumstances. We recently interviewed some of A2JC’s volunteers to highlight their work, which is not just helpful but absolutely essential to the Commission's mission of breaking down barriers and building a more just society for all.
MARYLAND BAR JOURNAL | VOLUME 7 ISSUE 1
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