NCJ Number
197150
Date Published
2001
Length
16 pages
Annotation
These guidelines for individual lawyers are intended to provide them with practical suggestions for implementing a resolution passed by the American Bar Association's House of Delegates in February 2000, which urges organized bar support for public legal education and mandates individual lawyers to view public legal education as part of their fundamental obligation as members of the profession.
Abstract
This guide explains public legal education as involving a broad range of activities, from speaking to a classroom of students and participating in an "Ask a Lawyer" call-in program to writing an op-ed piece for the local newspaper. It also involves providing support to the schools and community-based organizations that are already involved in furthering public understanding of the law. This guide suggests many opportunities for lawyers to participate in public legal education, including volunteering to teach a class, serving on a board or committee, acting as a mentor, or leading a fund-raising drive. The guide also presents practical advice on how lawyers can effectively communicate with public audiences and identifies resources that can assist lawyers in their responsibility to enhance the provision of public legal education. Further, the guide highlights existing programs that depend on the contributions of volunteer lawyers; and it offers the personal insights of legal professionals on the value of public legal education. Many of the guide's recommendations were provided by schools and organizations that currently offer law-related education and rely on the efforts of volunteer attorneys.