Abstract

In criminal cases, poor individuals must qualify as legally indigent to receive legal representation. In civil cases, poor and indigent individuals must find their own resources to support themselves since the government does not guarantee counsel. Without counsel, poor and indigent individuals are forced to find legal representation for these cases on their own, which can be difficult considering the expenses of fees and fines. Cognitive processes, including bias and stereotypes, create a barrier in advocacy because they cloud judgement of decision-makers, which can diminish the voice of this vulnerable community. Barriers like these create an invisible wall where limited court access restricts poor and indigent people. While there are many factors that contribute to this problem, the legal community has a responsibility to increase and promote education on reducing the impact of the invisible wall towards vulnerable communities.

Thesis Completion

2022

Semester

Spring

Thesis Chair/Advisor

Consalo, Marc

Degree

Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)

College

College of Community Innovation and Education

Department

Legal Studies

Degree Program

Legal Studies

Language

English

Access Status

Open Access

Release Date

5-1-2022

Included in

Legal Studies Commons

Share

COinS