PUERTO RICO’S ACCESS TO JUSTICE COMMUNITY TO PROVIDE FREE LEGAL SUPPORT FOR PEOPLE AFFECTED BY HURRICANE MARÍA

"As part of the initiative “Ayuda Legal Huracán María” (Legal Assistance Hurricane María), a number of organizations and individuals committed with access to justice, from both Puerto Rico and the US, have come together to provide free legal support to those affected by the hurricane. This initiative unites members of a far-reaching Puerto Rican community, with one objective: that island residents receive timely and effective legal information and assistance. This three-pronged initiative will: (1) offer free and accessible legal information about claims and rights that could be affected by this disaster; (2) develop capacity among the island’s legal practitioners in disaster legal relief; and (3) provide free legal support and counsel to those who need it most; particularly individuals from our most disadvantaged communities.

The Access to Justice Working Group is responsible for the on-the-ground coordination of this effort. The Working Group brings together the principal providers of free legal assistance on the island, the clinics and pro bono student groups from all three law schools, the Puerto Rico Bar Association, the Civil Rights Commission, as well as lawyers and students in their individual capacity. Stateside, this effort is led by the Latino Justice Puerto Rico Legal Defense and Education Fund (Latino Justice). Other collaborating organizations include Pro Bono Net, the Louisiana Civil Justice Center, Columbia University Law School’s Pro Bono student group and the NYC Bar Association..."

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