Ensuring justice for all
Reaching the goal of justice for all
Our "Justice for All" guide offers a framework to help state courts and their community partners address unmet civil justice needs. This comprehensive roadmap includes tools and strategies to build collaborative systems that better serve every community. The Justice for All project was funded by the Public Welfare Foundation, The Kresge Foundation, Open Safety Foundations, and the Freedom Together Foundation (formerly the JPB Foundation).
Who should read this guide?
- Judges & court administrators: Understand how to lead collaborative efforts that improve access to justice for those navigating civil legal issues
- Court staff & legal professionals: Explore how working together can help courts plan, implement, and improve access to justice for all
- Community partners: Learn how partnerships can provide the right resources to support those in need
Why this guide matters
Too many Americans face serious civil legal problems without meaningful help. This guide – which was made possible by the Public Welfare Foundation, the Kresge Foundation, the Open Society Foundation, and the JPB Foundation – offers practical tools and proven strategies to help your court ensure justice for all.
Key considerations to ensure justice for all
Equal justice is everyone’s responsibility
Courts, lawyers, and community groups must work together to address unmet civil justice needs.
Too many navigate civil issues alone
Self-help tools, navigators, and non-lawyer support are essential to bridge the gap when other legal assistance falls short.
Systemwide referrals create full access
Courts can connect legal and community aid providers, so people find the right help quickly, no matter where they start from.
Feedback drives solutions
Your court should listen closely to community input, analyze legal needs, and adjust systems based on the experiences of court users.
Keep it simple
User-friendly processes, forms, and training for court staff can help ensure justice is accessible to those without lawyers.
Sustained planning, regular reviews fuel change
Courts and communities that share goals, establish clear timelines, and conduct systematic assessments can create lasting improvements.
Assess your state's efforts to close the justice gap
Our diagnostic tool helps courts and court partners assess statewide efforts to close the justice gap and identify opportunities to address gaps in these efforts as part of a larger planning process. Once complete, you'll receive a custom report that recommends activities your state may want to consider building toward comprehensive and systemwide reforms to achieve justice for all.
FAQs
Ready to take the next step?
Our team can assist you with creating effective resources for individuals navigating civil legal issues in your community.
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Access & fairness
Accessibility
Guiding courts in following legal requirements and creating accessible spaces where everyone can fully participate in the justice system.