Chief Justice to speak at Legal Aid’s 65th Anniversary Celebration
O’Connor life-long advocate for equal access to justice
Ohio Supreme Court Chief Justice Maureen O’Connor will be the featured welcome speaker at Community Legal Aid’s 65th Anniversary Celebration.
O’Connor was first elected to the Court in 2002, re-elected in 2008 and then elected as the first female Chief Justice of the Ohio Supreme Court in 2010. She was re-elected in 2016 for a second and final six-year term.
In addition to serving as Chief Justice, O’Connor also leads as co-chair the National Task Force on Fees, Fines and Bail Practices, a group dedicated to addressing the impact court fines and bail practices have on economically disadvantaged communities.
As of August 9, 2017, she will serve as President of the Conference of Chief Justices.
“We’re beyond thrilled to have Chief Justice O’Connor joining us for this historic event,” Legal Aid Board Chair Nancy Grim shared. “The Chief Justice has been a staunch supporter of access to justice for all, and we are proud that she comes from our local community.”
Legal Aid Executive Director Steven McGarrity agreed.
“Her message speaks directly to our mission,” he explained, “That everyone should have equal protection under the law, and that financial hardship or your zip code shouldn’t determine your ability to protect yourself and your rights.”
The Chief Justice will be giving welcome remarks to guests at the event. She will be speaking on access to justice and the importance of legal aid for low-income populations.
“Legal Aid helps keep the courthouse doors open to those who need legal assistance but cannot afford to hire a lawyer,” Chief Justice O’Connor said. “Justice for all means everyone, and Legal Aid’s contributions go a long way to making that ideal a reality.”
Event details
Legal Aid’s 65th Anniversary Celebration will take place on Thursday, September 28, 2017, at Greystone Hall in Akron (103 South High Street, Akron). Doors open at 5:30 p.m. with the Chief Justice speaking at 6:20.
Tickets are $100 and include drinks and heavy hors d’oeuvres. RSVP online at www.communitylegalaid.org/65years or to jconnolly@communitylegalaid.org.
