Thirst for Justice

 

Thirst for Justice is a legal clinic where the underprivileged in the Baton Rouge community will have the opportunity to consult with an attorney. The project was initiated when Retired Judge Melvin Shortess approached the Pro Bono Project and St. Vincent de Paul with the idea for the clinic. The Pro Bono Committee and the Baton Rouge Bar Association have also played an integral part in the planning and organizing of this worthy project. Thirst for Justice provides legal referral services to needy men and women who often don't know where to turn for assistance in legal matters.

The program brings free legal advice to the community, helping them overcome transportation, communication, and financial barriers. Once an attorney has assessed the client's situation, the client may be referred to an agency that will possibly place the case with a volunteer attorney. To qualify, the individual's household income must be below the federal guidelines for poverty.

Baton Rouge Bar Foundation Board and staff members work closely with staff and Board leadership at St. Vincent de Paul to make the project a success. Any attorney who would like to volunteer to offer counsel and advice, or any paralegal who would like to help with the intake and screening of potential clients, please contact Caroline Cooper Ching at (225) 214-5558.