Street Lawyers




On the back alleys in Ghana, you can find rows of tables, storage containers and benches full of people who are seeking legal advice. They type on old fashioned typewriters and printers that belong in museums because there is no electricity where they work. Many people seek their services because they can not afford to go to the legal offices near the court. Many of the legal aid there are commissioners for oaths, paralegals or letter writers. They are able to assist many people. The writer of the article said that in the 30 minutes it took to get their legal help they also helped 5 other clients. Many who work their feel their work is important because it helps the court register and gives aid to people who would not be able to afford it any other way. The Goro Boys who are the middlemen make it hard for some legal aid to get work because they talk over and give priority to those who paid their taxes. It is easy to mistake many of the lawyers who work there for ordinary people but their work is important and they know what they are doing.

http://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-41901444

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