Beyond Elite Law: Access to Civil Justice in America - Softcover

Softcover

ISBN 10: 110766862X ISBN 13: 9781107668621

Publisher: Cambridge University Press, 2017

Synopsis

Are Americans making under $50,000 a year compelled to navigate the legal system on their own, or do they simply give up because they cannot afford lawyers? We know anecdotally that Americans of median or lower income generally do without legal representation or resort to a sector of the legal profession that - because of the sheer volume of claims, inadequate training, and other causes - provides deficient representation and advice. This book poses the question: can we - at the current level of resources, both public and private - better address the legal needs of all Americans? Leading judges, researchers, and activists discuss the role of technology, pro bono services, bar association resources, affordable solo and small firm fees, public service internships, and law student and nonlawyer representation.

About this title

Review:

'This book significantly advances our understanding of the failure to provide most Americans the legal services needed to vindicate important rights and provides an attractive blueprint for addressing this serious social problem.' Richard L. Revesz, Lawrence King Professor of Law and Dean Emeritus, New York University School of Law

'The authors of this volume show powerfully how access to justice is essential. Justice for only those who can afford it is neither justice for all nor justice at all.' Nathan L. Hecht, Chief Justice, Supreme Court of Texas

'This volume is a moving and remarkable tribute to the hopes for American justice, even as many chapters detail current failings. Beyond Elite Law documents when and why millions of individuals lack the resources to pursue their claims of right and their needs for representation. Yet, instead of leaving readers disheartened, the editors include a panoply of reforms, enabling debate about which routes create fair and publicly accountable responses.' Judith Resnik, Arthur Liman Professor of Law, Yale Law School

Book Description:

This book provides the most systematic account to date of the access to justice crisis in civil courtrooms for low- and middle-income Americans. The successful reform efforts in technology, pro bono services, bar association resources, and law student representation outlined here will be of interest to lawyers, judges, and policymakers.

About this edition

• Publisher: Cambridge University Press
• Publication date: 2017
• ISBN 10: 110766862X
• ISBN 13: 9781107668621
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 758
• Editor: Estreicher Samuel