SearchLAC VP Weighs In on Times Article
On December 28, 2009, the New York Times’ cover story, “The Recession Begins Flooding Into the Courts“ explored how courts are being inundated by cases due to the downturn in the economy. [Full article here]
LAC Vice President Anita Marton responded to the article in a letter to the editor.
| To the Editor: Even as the courts are being inundated by cases due to the downturn in the economy, (December 28 cover story, “The Recession Begins Flooding Into the Courts), funding to provide legal services to the indigent has also been hard hit by the recession. Many organizations such as the Legal Action Center receive funding from the New York Interest on Lawyer Account ("IOLA") Fund, to provide a wide-range of legal services. Because IOLA is funded by the interest on lawyers’ escrow accounts, its revenue has plunged, from nearly $31 million in 2008 to less than $8 million this year. While we have never come close to meeting the demand for our services, without this vital funding, we will have no choice but to turn away hundreds of low-income, stigmatized New Yorkers with criminal records, alcohol/drug problems, and/or HIV/AIDS who need our help so that they can lead productive and dignified lives. Anita R. Marton Vice President |