A new organisation is aiming to boost diversity in the legal profession, writes Chidiadi Pipi Young Lawyers Association is an organisation of young black […]By Waltham Forest Echo

A new organisation is aiming to boost diversity in the legal profession, writes Chidiadi Pipi

Young Lawyers Association is an organisation of young black and minority ethnic (BAME) lawyers seeking to improve the diversity of the legal industry.

We were founded in August and will be working with the skilled staff at Ennon Solicitors to offer young BAME law students work experience next summer. We offer advice on immigration, family and criminal law, plus help with understanding, obtaining and filing legal documents.

Next month we are incredibly excited to be launching a new legal advice clinic, working closely with the amazing team at Waltham Forest Community Hub. It will take place on the first Tuesday of the month, starting on 4th December with an open day.

Our clinic will offer those in need of help a way to avoid what could potentially be an incredibly expensive case by offering free legal advice and assistance. We also have a paralegal on hand to help clients fill out forms and advise on how to lodge the forms with the court – although no members of the law clinic are able to represent clients in court.

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In future we hope to run quarterly ‘know your rights’ sessions, relating to police stop-and-search powers and other issues affecting BAME people. We will also be offering mental health talks, giving information and assistance.

There is an opportunity here for legal practitioners who are passionate about giving back to the community to support this new initiative. This could come in the form of lawyers who can offer advice or local businesses that wish to support us with funding. If you can help in any way it would be great to hear from you.

Our open day on Tuesday 4th December runs between 6.30pm and 8.30pm. Pop in and see us at 18a Orford Rd, Walthamstow E17 9LN. We look forward to meeting you!

For more information: Email [email protected]

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