In today's world, lawyers are needed to handle a wide variety of legal issues from making a will to filing for divorce. However, the cost of hiring an attorney can be a problem for low-income people.
The Erie County Bar Association Volunteer Lawyers Project, Inc. provides free legal services on civil matters to income-qualified individuals and families. It has been in operation since the 1980's but many people do not know of its existence.
With 400 volunteer lawyers taking part, the project handled 4,281 cases in 2017 worth $10 million in free benefits. It is looking to increase the number of cases it works on for 2018.
Robert Elardo, executive director & CEO, said the project is always looking for additional attorneys to provide "pro bono" legal help for struggling individuals. Only civil cases are taken on by the lawyers, who do not work on criminal cases as part of the free service.
7 Eyewitness News Reporter Ed Reilly takes a closer look at the program and what it covers.
You can find out more information and see if you qualify by contacting the ECBA Volunteer Lawyers Project at (716) 847-0662 or by going to the following website:
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