25-26 VISTA Supporting Access to Justice in Wyoming

The goal of this VISTA project is to alleviate poverty by increasing access to justice, which can allow individuals to resolve their legal issues even if they cannot afford an attorney. Access to justice encompasses representation in court, reduction of legal barriers to service, and ready availability of information and resources, all of which help people protect their livelihoods, health, homes, and families, and in turn stabilize communities.
Equal Justice Wyoming (EJW), a division of the Wyoming Supreme Court, produces and disseminates self-help legal resources and supports access-to-justice initiatives. The VISTA Member will be involved in implementing a state-wide legal needs assessment and in the evaluation of legal service events in order to expand EJW¿s capacity to serve low-income individuals and provide increased access to justice. EJW is partnering with Legal Aid of Wyoming (LAW) to host this position. LAW is a non-profit law firm providing legal help to low-income individuals. The VISTA Member will help alleviate poverty by maximizing the provision of legal services to those living in, or in danger of falling into, poverty. This service opportunity is available without regard to race, color, national origin, sex, age, religion, sexual orientation, disability, political affiliation, marital or parental status, genetic information, or military service. This program is available to all and specific accessibility needs will be addressed on a case-by-case scenario. Background checks will be required before service and may be repeated during service.