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The strength of any profession is measured not only by its expertise but by its connection to the community it serves.
As legal professionals, we have a unique responsibility – and opportunity – to stand beside those in need, particularly those who may not have access to representation or support otherwise.
In Jacksonville, that need is great. Every day, individuals and families encounter legal issues that impact their homes, livelihoods and ability to move forward.
Eviction, consumer fraud, domestic violence, wage theft – these are not abstract legal problems. They’re real challenges that shape people’s lives. And too often, those facing them are doing so alone.
That’s where organizations like Jacksonville Area Legal Aid and Three Rivers Legal Services come in – and where our support, as attorneys and as members of the Jacksonville Bar Association, is critical.
JALA and Three Rivers provide essential legal services to low-income and vulnerable residents across our region, promoting economic, social and housing justice.
They do this work tirelessly, relying on the time, talent and support of the legal community to expand their reach.
Voluntary Bar associations, such as the JBA, are uniquely positioned to help close the justice gap.
Unlike regulatory bodies, we are free to lead with service, to organize in creative ways and to amplify the causes that align with our shared values.
When we connect our members with organizations like JALA and Three Rivers, we not only serve others but also strengthen the foundation of our profession.
However, this commitment must extend beyond mere good intentions.
It’s not enough to praise the work of public interest lawyers from a distance. We need to be involved. We need to show up.
That might mean volunteering at a housing clinic, taking a pro bono case or mentoring a young attorney interested in public service.
It might also mean advocating for better funding for legal aid programs or helping our colleagues understand how their skills can make a difference outside the courtroom.
Through community partnerships, we can foster relationships that strengthen our city.
And when the legal profession becomes a visible, reliable ally to underserved populations, we rebuild trust in the system we represent. It’s a reminder that the law can – and should – work for everyone.
At the JBA, we are continuing to seek out new opportunities for meaningful engagement. We’re encouraging leadership at all levels to take ownership of service efforts and to find creative ways to give back.
When members of the legal community are actively engaged in civic life, the benefits extend far beyond a single event or volunteer shift.
They help foster a culture of compassion, professionalism and public trust that elevates us all.
Remember that while the courtroom may be our usual arena, the true reach of our work often begins far outside it – in neighborhood centers, community halls and around kitchen tables where people need help but don’t know where to turn.
As members of this profession and this city, we can be the ones who meet them there.
Our profession is stronger when it’s grounded in service. And our association is stronger when it makes that service a priority.
I encourage every member of the JBA to explore opportunities to engage in this work, whether through JALA, Three Rivers or another community organization.
Because when we commit to lifting others, we lift our profession – and our city – with us.
Brian Coughlin is a director at Bedell Law Firm, focusing on criminal justice matters.