If you’ve ever needed legal advice but couldn’t afford a lawyer, May 1 is your chance to get answers for free.
The Oklahoma Bar Association is once again hosting its annual Law Day, and there is also an opportunity to get residents connected with licensed attorneys through the ‘Ask a Lawyer’ hotline.
What Is Law Day?
Law Day is observed every year on May 1 to celebrate the rule of law and promote civic education. It’s a national initiative that highlights the importance of legal rights and responsibilities in a democratic society.
How ‘Ask a Lawyer’ Works
The Oklahoma Bar Association’s ‘Ask a Lawyer’ hotline allows anyone in the state to call and speak directly with a volunteer attorney.
These attorneys are trained in a variety of legal fields and can provide basic advice, clarify legal concerns, and point callers to resources—all at no charge.
Mary Clement, co-chair of the Oklahoma Bar Association’s Law Day committee, says the program is often a lifeline for people who can’t afford legal services.
“They can speak with an attorney with little commitment and just find out some of the answers to their legal problems without having to make the big commitment for paying for an attorney or paying for a consultation,” Clement said.
What Questions Can You Ask?
Callers can get help with a wide range of issues—from family law and landlord disputes to small claims and basic legal rights, and they can guide them on what to do next.
“One of the things that we really are glad to be able to do with the ‘Ask a Lawyer’ hotline is direct them to resources,” Clement added. “Whether that is pro bono representation, another nonprofit organization that can help, or forms and documents they can use to pursue their case on their own.”
When and How to Call
The ‘Ask a Lawyer’ hotline is open on Thursday, May 1, from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. The number to call is 918-340-5297.
About 100 attorneys are volunteering their time to staff the phones, and organizers expect more than 1,000 calls throughout the day.
More Resources Online
For more information about Law Day and free legal resources, visit the Oklahoma Bar Association’s website.