About Harvard Legal Aid Bureau
Harvard Legal Aid Bureau: Providing Access to Justice for All
Harvard Law School is renowned for its commitment to excellence in legal education and scholarship. One of the ways that HLS demonstrates this commitment is through the Harvard Legal Aid Bureau (HLAB), a student-run organization that provides free legal services to low-income clients in the Greater Boston area.
Founded in 1913, HLAB is one of the oldest and most respected legal aid organizations in the country. Its mission is to provide high-quality legal representation to those who cannot afford it, while also giving law students an opportunity to gain practical experience and develop their professional skills.
HLAB's work covers a wide range of practice areas, including housing law, family law, immigration law, employment law, and criminal defense. The organization has a team of over 70 student attorneys who are supervised by experienced clinical instructors and attorneys from partner organizations.
One of HLAB's core values is its commitment to social justice. The organization recognizes that many low-income individuals face systemic barriers that prevent them from accessing justice and achieving their full potential. By providing free legal services, HLAB seeks to level the playing field and empower its clients to assert their rights and improve their lives.
In addition to direct client representation, HLAB engages in policy advocacy and community education initiatives aimed at addressing systemic issues affecting low-income communities. For example, HLAB has been involved in efforts to reform Massachusetts' eviction laws and increase access to affordable housing.
HLAB's impact extends far beyond its individual clients. Through its work with community partners such as tenant associations and grassroots organizations, HLAB helps build stronger communities by promoting social change at both the individual and systemic levels.
As an integral part of Harvard Law School's clinical program, HLAB offers students a unique opportunity for hands-on learning under close supervision from experienced attorneys. Student attorneys are responsible for all aspects of client representation - from conducting intake interviews through drafting pleadings - giving them valuable experience working on real cases with real clients.
The benefits of participating in HLAB extend beyond just gaining practical skills; students also have opportunities for leadership development through serving on committees or taking on supervisory roles within the organization.
Overall, Harvard Legal Aid Bureau represents an important part of Harvard Law School's commitment not only towards academic excellence but also towards social justice issues affecting our society today. With over 100 years' worth experience providing access-to-justice services across various practice areas coupled with strong partnerships with other organizations committed towards similar goals; it remains one-of-a-kind institution dedicated solely towards ensuring equal access-to-justice regardless socio-economic status or background – truly making it stand out among other institutions offering similar programs nationwide!