Bringing Legal Aid to Prisons

Last month, a small Rise Up team had the opportunity to meet with a cohort of 25 lawyers. This cohort offers pro-bono services for individuals who are the most vulnerable and don’t have the resources to seek legal representation.

These lawyers serve the most vulnerable in the district’s women’s prison. Often a woman is abandoned by her husband if she is incarcerated, leaving her with no resources or ability to seek legal representation.

These lawyers are driven and passionate to come alongside vulnerable women and children who do not have the resources to seek and receive legal aid.

Seven of these lawyers were recently certified by the government in mediation. Mediation is preferred over litigation because it resolves the conflict and provides the foundation for restorative justice. Mediation puts the power in the hands of the parties to work towards mutually agreed upon reparations, forgiveness, and reconciliation. With mediation, reconciliation and peace are more likely. Mediation also saves valuable time and brings about resolution much faster. An average court case can last up to 2 years whereas mediation can normally be done in less than two months.

As we sat with these lawyers, they shared updates, we encouraged them in their efforts, and together, we strategically planned for future initiatives. Our dream is to work with these lawyers and help them get certified in mediation. We want to continue to support and defend women and children in prison.