Virginia Access to Justice Commission

About
The Supreme Court of Virginia established by order the Virginia Access to Justice Commission to ensure that an entity is actively coordinating and promoting access to justice efforts in the Commonwealth.  The Commission focuses on the civil legal needs of Virginia residents, while continually assessing and being responsive to access to justice challenges. The Virginia Access to Justice Commission is consistent with Vision 3 of the current Strategic Plan for Virginia's Judicial System, which states that Virginia’s courts will "maintain human dignity and provide effective access to justice for all persons."

The Commission brings together judges, lawyers, representatives from legal aid and social services, as well as other stakeholders to promote equal access to justice in Virginia. The Commission coordinates access to justice activities among various groups, mobilizes legal professionals to provide legal services to low income individuals, encourages the development of auxiliary resources for underserved populations, and makes the courts more accessible for all citizens.

The Commission acts on its mission through its standing committees focused on self-represented litigants, judicial education, outreach and education, and pro bono services, along with a pro bono coordinating consortium. Commission accomplishments include the Virginia Judicial System Court Self-Help Website, a model policy for use of portable electronic devices in courthouses and courtrooms, and a collaboration with the Virginia State Bar to address frequently asked questions about pro bono reporting.

Disclaimer: The Virginia Access to Justice Commission does not provide legal representation or advice.  The Virginia State Bar’s Virginia Lawyer Referral Service, or VLRS, connects the public with Virginia lawyers based on specific practice of law and geographic Virginia locations.  A listing of Free and Low-Cost Legal Resources for the public is also available from the Virginia State Bar.

Contact Information

• Elizabeth Schiller
  Office of the Executive Secretary
  804-786-6455

Reports

• Perceptions of Self-Represented Litigation in Virginia

Resources and Reference Materials

• Commission Members
• Commission Meeting Schedule
• Judicial Education Committee ~ Resources
• Order Creating Commission
• Planning Committee Recommendations