4/21/05

Lansing-area attorneys will observe Law Day 2005 by offering free legal advice on a toll-free hotline. The volunteer attorneys will answer incoming phone calls from noon to 6 p.m., Sunday, May 1.

"Law Day was established almost 50 years ago by President Eisenhower to remind us that law is the basis of our individual rights in a free, democratic society," said Nancy J. Diehl, president of the State Bar of Michigan. "We felt the best way to honor our profession is to allow experienced attorneys to give back to their communities with free, confidential legal advice."

By dialing (517) 394-3121 ext. 254, local residents can speak to an attorney, who will listen to their problem and give his or her expert advice. Attorneys will remain anonymous and cannot solicit cases. People outside the calling area can dial 1-800-968-0044, ext.254.

The Law Day phone bank is sponsored by the State Bar of Michigan, Ingham County Bar Association and Legal Services of South Central Michigan.

In addition to the hotline, the Michigan Lawyers Auxiliary will host a Law Day Awards Luncheon at the Michigan Hall of Justice in Lansing at noon, Wednesday, May 4 to honor 6th, 7th and 8th grade student winners of an essay contest. Clifford Taylor, chief justice of the Michigan Supreme Court, is the featured speaker.