Pro Bono News

Bank of Nevada and First Independent Bank Increase Financial Support of Nevada Legal Aid Organizations (NV)

Thursday, September 06, 2018

Bank of Nevada and First Independent Bank Increase Financial Support of Nevada Legal Aid Organizations

"LAS VEGAS – Bank of Nevada and First Independent Bank, divisions of Western Alliance Bank, Member FDIC, have increased the amount of interest paid on Lawyer Trust Accounts, known as IOLTA funds, which are used to support legal aid organizations. Nevadans who find themselves in need of civil legal assistance can expect increased access to Nevada’s nonprofit legal aid organizations as a result of more than half a million dollars in additional funding annually.

“By increasing the amount we pay on Lawyer Trust Accounts, Bank of Nevada and First Independent Bank are not only increasing financial stability to legal aid organizations but ensuring those unable to pay for legal services still have access to them,” said John Guedry, CEO, Bank of Nevada and First Independent Bank. “We know this increase in IOLTA distributions will have a direct impact on those in our state in need of legal services.”

Each month, Nevadans who are in need of assistance with civil legal issues can access justice through the support of many legal aid organizations. These nonprofit agencies provide legal advice and related services to the poor, senior citizens, victims of domestic violence, children protected by or in need of protection by the juvenile court, and other persons who may be denied access to justice for financial or other reasons.

In all, there are five core legal aid organizations in the state that rely on IOLTA funds to help them operate. Many families would not be able to receive legal assistance without the low or no-cost services provided through these agencies..."

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