The State Bar of Michigan has launched an "Every Member Campaign" to raise funds for its Access to Justice (ATJ) program, which supports civil legal aid for the needy throughout the state. This initiative comes as federal funding cuts totaling $2 million will be made to legal aid programs statewide next year.

State Bar President, Reginald M. Turner, has urged members of the legal community to boost their participation in the ATJ campaign to 100 percent. Of the Bar's 35,000 members, 3,000 have supported the ATJ Fund, contributing over two and half million dollars in cash, pledges and planned gifts. Plans are also underway to take the ATJ message to the public.

"I strongly urge every member to make a contribution because support for access to justice is an important element of the oath we took as we joined the legal profession. Before we ask the public to support our civil legal aid programs with their own charitable dollars, we need to make a stronger statement of support for the pro bono publico tradition in our justice system," Turner said.

Past ATJ contributions have helped to fund non-profit civil legal aid programs, pro bono work, court representation for individuals who need help dealing with issues of domestic violence, family law, housing and other legal matters. Contributors have also established an endowment for the long-term financial stability of civil legal services programs in Michigan. For information on tax credits and ways to donate online, and to print a pledge form, visit www.atjfund.org. Pledge forms for the ATJ Fund can also be found in forthcoming issues of the Michigan Bar Journal or by calling the State Bar at 1-800-968-1442.