For many individuals in Massachusetts, the legal system can often feel like a locked door. Equal access to justice is supposed to be a foundational right – not a luxury reserved for a select few. Unfortunately, that’s not often the case.
From language barriers and disabilities to financial hardship, access to the legal system can be extremely limited and confusing for many. These barriers prevent people from getting help they may desperately need.
That’s why we’re proud to spotlight and support the incredible work of the Massachusetts Access to Justice Commission, or MassA2J, an organization boldly working to remove systemic barriers and make our legal system more inclusive, responsive, and fair for everyone.
What Is the Massachusetts Access to Justice Commission?
MassA2J is a statewide initiative that works to expand access to justice in Massachusetts, particularly for low-income individuals and marginalized communities.
They bring together leaders from various legal communities in the state to develop innovative and future-looking solutions to make sure everyone can access the legal assistance they need.
A Partnership We’re Proud Of
As longtime advocates for injury victims and their families, we understand how critical timely and effective legal support can be.
Our co-founder, Victoria Santoro, currently serves as an Access to Justice Commissioner. It’s a role that reflects her personal and professional commitment to our firm’s larger mission: unyielding determination to secure an improved quality of life – not only for our clients but for our community as a whole.
Earlier this year, our team participated in the Walk to the Hill for Civil Legal Aid, where we joined forces with the Massachusetts Bar Association, the Equal Justice Coalition, and the Boston Bar Association to call for more funding for the Massachusetts Legal Assistance Corporation, or MLAC. More funding would help directly support legal aid programs; without these programs, thousands of residents would otherwise face the legal system alone.
“Housing assistance continues to be the most pressing need for individuals and families seeking legal aid in Massachusetts,” says Attorney Santoro. “For low-income individuals facing these challenges, a legal aid attorney can be a lifeline.”
How to Help
At Santoro and Gray, we’re proud to stand with the Massachusetts Access to Justice Commission and advocate for a system that is more equitable, accessible, and compassionate for all.
Whether we are lobbying for legal aid funding or representing a personal injury client, we believe that justice should be available to everyone.
If you’d like to help, you can support their mission by attending a meeting or simply spreading awareness. In addition, consider contacting your state legislators and urging them to increase funding for the Massachusetts Legal Assistance Corporation (MLAC), which supports civil legal aid programs across the Commonwealth.
At Santoro & Gray, we are proud to stand with MassA2J in breaking down barriers to justice, and we encourage our community to do the same.