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ACCESS TO JUSTICE REPORT JANUARY 2024

To: LSBA Board of Governors
From: Monte Mollere, ATJ Director

This memo highlights information on the programs and initiatives of the LSBA’s Access to Justice
Commission, Committee and Department that may be of interest or relevance to the LSBA Board of
Governors. Only activities occurring since the last board meeting are included in this report. Should
you have any questions or require additional background on any item, we are happy to provide that
information.

1) Pro Bono Publico and Children’s Law Awards

The Louisiana State Bar Association is now accepting nominations for the 2023 Pro Bono Publico
and Children’s Law Awards. Nominations are due by Thursday, February 9. To submit a
nomination, visit https://www.lsba.org/nominations/nominationannouncements.aspx.

2) LSU Apprenticeship Week

The LSBA’s Access to Justice Program participated in the 2024 LSU Apprenticeship Week. The
ATJ Staff hosted a week-long experiential learning class on access to justice titled “Serving the
Public and the Profession” where we explored the organized bar’s efforts to support access to
justice, the impetus for doing so, and how the legal profession is sustaining and growing these
efforts. The focus was on developing practical skills that assist professional advancement and
public service. A diverse group of ATJ leaders presented during the program and topics covered
include: Louisiana’s civil legal aid network, the importance of providing pro bono work, the justice
gap, unbundled legal services, the rise of self-represented litigants, and client communication.
Skills training includes preparation of court filings and an interview skills training focusing on
working with clients with special needs.

3) Second Annual Access to Justice Conclave

The LSBA Access to Justice Program will host its second annual ATJ Conclave on Friday, April
12, 2024. The initial ATJ Conclave brought together public interest law thought leaders on issues
affecting access to legal assistance with the overall goal of improving access to justice for low-
income families and vulnerable populations in Louisiana. While the initial Conclave set forth a
strategic plan, the Second Annual Conclave will carry forward the resulting priorities with a focus
on educating and supporting community partners, such as United Way and 211, direct people to
appropriate available legal providers, information, and/or resources. The Conclave will also explore
successful community and state court navigator program models that have launched around the
country. Similar to the first Conclave, attendees will include legal aid providers, non-legal
community partners, judges and court personnel.

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