Cameron Parish Library is announcing that it is participating in the eleventh annual “Lawyers in Libraries” statewide program in partnership with the Louisiana State Bar Association (LSBA), the State Library of Louisiana, and the Louisiana Library Association. This year, library patrons across the state have the opportunity to meet with an attorney for brief “Ask-a-Lawyer” consultations in person at participating libraries.

On Wednesday, Oct. 23, Attorney Max Guthrie will provide free individual consultations on legal issues from 9 to 11 a.m. at the Hackberry Branch located at 613 Main St., Hackberry and 1 to 3 p.m. at the Grand Lake Branch located at 10200 Gulf Highway, Lake Charles. Presentations from other attorneys on topical legal issues will also be broadcast daily throughout the week via the “LSBA Louisiana Lawyers in Libraries” Facebook page. These programs are free and open to the public.

This attorney-library partnership is a critical one in a state where nearly 20% of the population lives below the federal poverty line, with many more just barely making ends meet. Many people need legal assistance but cannot afford an attorney or don’t know where to start. The Lawyers in Libraries program allows participants to get basic information on their legal issue and be connected to further free and low-cost legal resources. Attorneys can answer questions on a wide range of civil legal topics with the exception of criminal cases.

Public libraries are natural starting points for people in search of information and services. Library staff can provide direction to available resources, but not legal advice. The Lawyers in Libraries program is a great benefit to patrons needing legal help, especially in areas without a legal aid office.”

Thanks to the combined efforts of the LSBA, LSBA members, the State Library of Louisiana, LLA, Law Library of Louisiana, legal aid partners, local bar associations, and other community partners, the success of Lawyers in Libraries has only grown over the years. Since its launch, attorneys have assisted over 10,000 Louisianans and reached patrons in every parish in the state.

For more details or help finding an event in your area, contact your local library or visit www.LouisianaLawyersinLibraries.org.