Lee County Bar Association to provide free legal consultations
Justice shouldn’t be reserved only for those who can pay for it. That’s why Lee County Bar Association attorneys will give free legal advice to the public on Saturday, April 27 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at the Edison Mall. The 25th annual Law in the Mall event is part of the bar’s Law Week, a series of events designed to celebrate the role of law in our society and to cultivate a deeper understanding of the legal profession.
“The law is second nature to us as attorneys, but to most people, navigating the legal system may seem like an impossible challenge,” said attorney Ryan O’Halloran, coordinator for Law in the Mall. “It’s a small investment of time for us, but it produces a great return for so many people who may desperately need help.”
Up to 40 bar attorneys will be available throughout the event for face-to-face consultations inside the mall, between entrances F and G in front of Dillard’s. They’ll offer answers and direction on situations that fall within their legal practice areas, including divorce, probate, criminal law, bankruptcy, real estate, foreclosure and more. Attorneys who would like to participate should contact O’Halloran at 239-334-7212 or Ryan@OHalloranFamilyLaw.com.
No pre-qualification or pre-registration is necessary for members of the public who seek help at the event, though attendees should bring any paperwork related to their case.
“The bar strives to make the community a better place,” said Lisa Poulin, the bar’s executive director. “Law in the Mall is designed to make a direct impact, bringing help to those who need it most. We’re grateful to the Edison Mall for continuing to partner with us on this fundamental initiative for the greater good.”
Plenty more is scheduled during Law Week, which runs April 27-May 3. An awards ceremony will recognize local law enforcement officers of the year, an outstanding law-related educator, and someone who has made a profound impact on the Lee County community. Plus, high school students will get an in-person view of oral arguments before Florida’s Second District Court of Appeals. Lee County Bar attorneys will even donate blood to Lee Health during the annual Law Week Blood Drive.
“This is what the bar is truly about — service,” Poulin said. “This is a group of attorneys motivated to help any way they can.”
Call Poulin at 239-334-0047 or email her at lpoulin@leebar.org to learn about the full slate of community outreach programs the bar conducts throughout the year.
