Access to Justice in the Show-Me State: Meeting the Civil Legal Needs of Low-Income Missourians

Authors

Melissa C. Emerson, University of Wisconsin-Stout, Menomonie, Wisconsin

Abstract

Access to justice is a fundamental component of a healthy democracy. There is no right to an attorney in most civil legal cases in the United States, which has led to a growing justice gap. The availability of civil legal aid is largely dependent on where one is situated geographically. This article examines the current civil legal aid landscape in the state of Missouri, highlighting the funding sources, legal aid delivery mechanisms, and pro bono service among Missouri attorneys. Policy recommendations are provided that could serve to narrow the justice gap in the state.

Recommended Citation

Emerson, Melissa C. (2015) "Access to Justice in the Show-Me State: Meeting the Civil Legal Needs of Low-Income Missourians," Missouri Policy Journal: Vol. 1: Iss. 3, Article 4.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.62608/2330-930X.1024
Available at: https://digitalcommons.lindenwood.edu/mpj/vol1/iss3/4