Wake County is now offering its third Lawyers in Your Library event at Oberlin Regional Library on September 14, aiming to connect residents with free family law legal support. This community initiative, a joint effort between Wake County Public Libraries and the Wake County Legal Support Center, is an extension of the courthouse's "Attorney of the Day" program that helped nearly 150 families in 2023. As reported by the Wake County, the program's objective is to bring legal assistance directly to people who might not have the means or opportunity to conveniently seek it out during weekdays in downtown Raleigh.
Previously, the initiative included two successful events at East Regional Library in Knightdale and Southeast Regional Library in Garner. The need for such services was clear; the initial Lawyers in Your Library sessions provided consultations to over 35 families. After this enthusiastic reception, organizers are set to quickly expand the clinic from three to six attorneys in their upcoming September session. Wake County Commissioner Matt Calabria stated in the same news release, “We’re eager to continue expanding our Lawyers in Your Library program, which will provide even more Wake County families with access to legal guidance.”
The legal consultations will focus on various family law issues including custody, child support, divorce, alimony, and adoption. The participating attorneys will offer free 30-minute sessions to help navigate the legal processes, understand court proceedings, and assist with drafting necessary legal documents. "While some people are capable of managing legal matters on their own, a consultation with an attorney can provide the critical guidance or insight needed to confidently navigate the courtroom effectively," Anh LyJordan, director of the Wake County Legal Support Center, stated in the news release from the Wake County.
Reflecting on the initiative's progress, more than 30 volunteer attorneys from local family law firms contributed over 80 hours in 2023 to the previously established Attorney of the Day program. This magnanimous spirit is expected to steadfastly continue, with the Legal Support Center committing to staff the program through the end of 2024. Sessions are available by appointment through the website, and there are also slots open for walk-ins. Free consultations will take place from 9 a.m. to noon at the specified dates and locations mentioned in the Wake County's announcement.
