The scope statement of the ISBA Committee on Law-Related Education for the Public was expanded recently to include development, implementation and administration of programs that enhance public understanding of the legal system and role of lawyers in society.

The committee provides articles about opportunities for ISBA members to become involved in civic education projects, in support of President Joseph G. Bisceglia's focus on building respect for legal institutions.

Programs are emphasized that stress the importance of an independent judiciary, or foster student interest in respecting the justice system and considering career in the law. Here is an example.

When you cannot make decisions in your own best interest, who decides?

South Holland attorney W. Terrance Godbolt, chair of the Cook County Bar Association's Community Outreach and Education Program, raised this question to an audience at a Melrose Park school.

The community forum, “Basic Rights of Every Man and Woman at Home, Work and on the Street,” marked the beginning of CCBA's current series of community programs.

A second forum followed at a church on the south side of Chicago during a Health and Legal Fair. Margaret J. DeNard, public information specialist for the University of Illinois Extension, had requested CCBA's participation.

Attorneys provided pro bono service in completing healthcare power of attorney forms. Godbolt brought a computer and printer to the fair so participants could leave with a completed documents.

More than 10 CCBA members participated in the forums during September. Each event opened with a general overview of legal issues, followed by an opportunity for participants to speak individually with attorneys. Some of the topics addressed included:

• Is your home subject to foreclosure?

• How does one find an attorney?

• How do you respond to a uniformed police officer during a traffic stop?

• May an employer refuse to hire you?

• Do the police have the right to come inside your home without a warrant?

• What happens if you simply pay a traffic ticket by mail?

CCBA members who practice in the areas of landlord-tenant, real estate transactions, domestic relations, foreclosures, DUI, bankruptcy and expungements are active participants in the programs.

The mission is to inform communities about legal issues that directly impact their daily lives and to dispel popular misconceptions about the justice system.

For additional information, contact Yolanda Cannon at (312) 630-1157 (option #4).