MS HC105

Commends and congratulates the Mississippi Access to Justice Commission on its 12-year anniversary since creation by the Mississippi Supreme Court on June 28, 2006.

Declares June 2018 as Access to Justice Month in Mississippi to recognize the Commission's efforts to improve civil court access for low-income residents.

Notes that approximately 1.3 million Mississippians qualify for civil legal aid, but only one Legal Services lawyer serves every 21,000 eligible people, resulting in more than half of applicants being turned away.

Recognizes collaborative efforts by the Access to Justice Commission, Mississippi Volunteer Lawyers Project, local bar associations, law students, and community organizations in providing free legal clinics and Pro Se Days across seven chancery districts.

Encourages state citizens to participate in observing Access to Justice Month and directs copies be furnished to the Commission and Capitol Press Corps.