WHY IT MATTERS IN THE MID-SOUTH
It is instructive to see how Arkansas' pursuit of justice compares to efforts in surrounding states. The following data and maps provide a look at efforts by Arkansas and bordering states.
(Is This Equal Access to Justice?)
Poverty Rates
Poverty is the basis for eligibility for free civil legal aid. A look at Poverty Rates among surrounding states provides an important measure of need for legal aid. Nationally, Arkansas is ranked 6th in the level of its citizens living in poverty. In the Mid-South, only Louisiana [ 1st] and Mississippi [ 3rd] rank higher.
(click to see regional map)
Court Fines and Fees
Court Fines and Fees are one way states can support access to justice for its citizens. These are expenses made at the time of filing or refilling law suits, and they are paid by the party bringing the action. In 2005 the Arkansas Legislature passed an act which placed a $20 fee on the re-opening of cases in circuit court. The funds go into the Public Legal Aid Fund and are distributed, on the basis of poverty population, to the two legal aid organizations in the state. The $342,000 raised in Arkansas is the second lowest level of support in the Mid-South. Texas provides the highest level of support ($5,180,000) for civil legal aid.
(click to see table)
State Appropriations
Another measure of support for legal aid is State Appropriations. Interestingly, the poorest state, Louisiana, provides a modest appropriation of $500,000. Only Oklahoma [$ 1,165,000] and Texas [$ 4,000,000] of the remaining regional states provide any state appropriation.
(click to see regional map)
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