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The closing portion of the attorney’s oath might be one of the most important, impactful and often overlooked commitments in the legal profession. Every attorney in Indiana has subscribed to the following: “I will never reject, from any consideration personal to myself, the cause of the defenseless, the oppressed, or those who cannot afford adequate legal assistance; so help me God.”
That oath was recently brought back into focus as attorneys from across Indiana, including those from Indianapolis Legal Aid Society, gathered alongside members of the judiciary to reaffirm the profession’s oath during National Law Day. While personally impactful, the event also served as a reminder that it is worth discussing what civil legal aid truly means in Indiana and how the legal profession continues to uphold its oath in tangible and actionable ways.
For Indianapolis Legal Aid Society and the members of the bar who support it, civil legal aid means direct representation for individuals facing life-altering legal issues without the financial ability to hire counsel. These are not abstract legal problems. They involve whether a child remains with family, whether a family keeps its home, whether a parent can legally drive to work, whether a senior citizen is protected from exploitation or whether someone in crisis can stabilize their life before circumstances worsen.
Importantly, civil legal aid is not separate from the broader legal profession. Arguably, it reflects the profession at its best.
Civil legal aid helps restore balance. It improves court efficiency, narrows issues, facilitates resolution and helps individuals understand both their rights and responsibilities. Just as importantly, it reinforces public confidence that the legal system remains accessible to ordinary people. The rule of law loses legitimacy when meaningful representation is available only to those with financial means.
Equal justice under law cannot simply be engraved on buildings or repeated in speeches. It must be carried out through representation, advocacy and service.
As this column’s co-author John Stewart has stated, “Most litigants who appear before a judge feel they are treated more fairly when they have had the opportunity to consult with or be represented by an attorney. Having someone other than the judge help them understand what is likely to occur can fundamentally shape how they perceive the process and the outcome. Organizations like Indianapolis Legal Aid Society that provide representation, explanation, guidance and support help rebuild the trust and confidence our justice system deserves.”
And as fellow co-author John Floreancig has stated: “Having dedicated 37 years of my career to the court system and Indianapolis Legal Aid Society, I can say without question that the impact this organization and the attorneys I have had the pleasure of working with have had on this community has changed thousands of lives. I am confident that this organization has represented the best of the bar, and I am always thankful for the commitment of our volunteers and especially our board members who give their time and resources to making a difference.”
Finally, as board Chair Lee Christie of Christie Farrell Lee & Bell P.C. has stated: “Many people do not understand the legal needs that vulnerable members of our community face in order to keep and secure housing for their families, have driver’s licenses reinstated so they can continue to work and contribute positively to society, and obtain guardianships so children can legally attend schools in their neighborhoods, along with countless other legal matters. If legal service organizations do not assist these individuals, then the courts are often left without the tools necessary to help provide the legal remedies they need.”•
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Floreancig is general counsel and CEO of Indianapolis Legal Aid Society, and Stewart is senior litigation partner.
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