For many South Africans, seeking legal advice can be unaffordable, but thanks to an annual initiative by the Department of Justice, the legal system was made a bit more accessible for residents of the Athlone and surrounding areas.
With the Athlone District Advice Office taking the lead, a helpdesk – which allowed locals access to lawyers and legal professionals – was set up at the Calvinist Church in Kewtown from Monday 22 to Thursday 25 August.
“Access to Justice Week is held annually during Women’s Month, with most of those offering their time and services being women in the legal profession,” says Brian Alcock, Advice Office Director.
“The purpose of the initiative being (to go) out and reaching out to those who have legal issues and feel their rights have been violated.”
Residents from the greater Athlone area, as well as a few from outside the area, accessed help. This initiative also took place in other courts and legal centres around the region.
“Over 100 persons were either assisted, advised or referred to other institutions,” says Alcock.
Matters in which locals sought help included estates, divorce, maintenance, arrears, transfer of property and family issues, among others.
The Athlone District Advice Office, which celebrates 30 years of service to the community this year, was joined and assisted by Pro-Bono Org, Legal Aid SA, University of Western Cape (UWC) Law Clinic, Justice Centre and Allie & Ass.
“All (participants) gave of their time even after the proposed end of day,” says Alcock.
“Of those who visited our office on the day, many were happy and showed their appreciation.”
The Advice Office continues to assist the public with the help of law graduates and law students.
They are available on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays from 14:00 to 19:00.
