In Support of Pro Bono Legal Service Programs to Assist the Elderly
Resolution 7 In Support of Pro Bono Legal Service Programs to Assist the Elderly
United States Census data indicate that by 2050, elders are projected to comprise approximately 20% of the general U.S. population. Numerous surveys confirm a rise in elder abuse, neglect, and financial exploitation cases over the past decade, with expectations of continued increases.
Economic conditions have had a particularly detrimental impact on the growing elderly population, resulting in an increasing number of older Americans subsisting on fixed incomes at or below the federal poverty guidelines.
Recognizing these challenges, the American Bar Association, in collaboration with the American Association of Retired Persons, as well as state and local bar associations, has instituted special projects and programs that enlist the services of emeritus attorneys to respond to the unmet civil legal needs of the elder population.
These pro bono emeritus rules and programs have enabled retired or inactive attorneys to provide important legal services for the elderly, including drafting powers of attorney, advance directives, and wills; offering legal guidance and assistance; facilitating the appointment of guardians as needed; and participating in educational programs aimed at elder audiences.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Conference of Chief Justices and the Conference of State Court Administrators encourage state supreme courts and their respective state and local bar associations to help address the growing unmet civil legal needs of vulnerable elders who are unable to afford legal services.
Adopted as proposed by the CCJ/COSCA Elders and the Courts Committee at the COSCA 2015 Midyear Meeting on December 5, 2015, and at the CCJ 2016 Midyear Meeting on February 3, 2016.