LNBA opens Legal Aid Clinic in Bong
The Liberia National Bar Association (LNBA) has opened a Legal Aid Clinic in Gbarnga, Bong County as part of efforts to ensure speedy dispensation of justice in the County.
The Legal Clinic is an establishment of the LNBA aimed at providing free legal services for party litigants who cannot afford legal fees. Bong is the third county to benefit from this pilot project initiated by the LNBA with help from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) Legal Professional Development and Anti-Corruption Program in Liberia (LPACE).
The second of such program is being opened in Margibi County. Speaking at the opening ceremony of the clinic, the Chairperson of the LNBA’s Legal Committee Cllr. Joyce Reeves Woods and the Executive Director of the Bar Edward Bonwinkor stated that the LNBA wants to ensure speedy justice system in Liberia.
They say the Bar must take the lead through Alternative Dispute Resolution. The two executives told Bong County citizens that the legal aid clinic has come closer to their door steps, asking them to take advantage of the program.
The lawyers say the clinic will not only be involved in taking people to court, but note that pro bono lawyers assigned at the facility will be handling family and property issues as well as some minor criminal cases in the County.
Speaking on behalf of Superintendent Esther Walker at the official opening of the clinic, the Administrative Assistant to the Superintendent of Bong County extended commendation to officials of the Bar Association for such a service to Bong County.
Mr. Joseph Dormeyan told officials of the LNBA that despite the huge caseload in Bong County, it is very difficult to see lawyers in the county working toward the adjudication of cases.
Mr. Dormeyan added that those who are lawyers from Bong County need to double their efforts in the provision of legal services. He said the office of the Superintendent is opened to work with the LNBA in ensuring they succeed.
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By Joseph Titus Yekeryan in Bong –Edited by Winston W. Parley
