New rule boosts pool of legal aid volunteers

"The Florida Bar rule that governs who can volunteer to help clients at legal aid organizations changed Nov. 20 — and the change added more than 3,500 retired attorneys, judges and law professors from accredited law schools to the list of eligible candidates.

Based on a recommendation from the Florida Commission on Access to Civil Justice, the state Supreme Court approved amending the “Emeritus Rule” and it could create a positive trend for the nonprofits that provide legal services to people who can’t afford to hire an attorney for a civil matter.

“It’s designed to make it easier to connect lawyers who can help with clients who need help,” said Jim Kowalski, president and CEO of Jacksonville Area Legal Aid and a member of the commission who worked on developing the rule change..."

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