LAWA 620-41 Access to Justice

Equal access to justice for all is a bedrock principle of our democracy but what does that mean? What constitutes equal access? How is justice defined? And how, as a practical matter, can this principle be realized for the vast number of people whose low and moderate incomes prelude their hiring an attorney? This course will explore these and other questions which arise and emerging initiatives designed to assist self-represented (pro-se) litigants, and the responsibility of the courts in access to justice. This will be a seminar style course, limited to 20 students, and will focus in particular on the Massachusetts justice system, including the courts. There will be a heavy emphasis on discussion and guest speakers, as well as opportunities for field trips. Students will be responsible for a final project designed to enhance access to justice. (Credits may be applied toward Public Interest Practice concentration.)