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Lawyers Looking to Offer Pro Bono: Alaska Needs Help

By William Vogeler, Esq. on March 12, 2019 | Last updated on March 21, 2019

The 7.0 earthquake that shook Anchorage last November had a real impact on the courts.

As walls swayed and fixtures broke apart, people hid under their desks to escape falling debris. The quake broke up roads outside, and sent residents to higher ground for fear of a tsunami.

Months later, the survivors still need help. The Alaska Supreme Court has opened a door for lawyers everywhere to volunteer.

The state Supreme Court issued an order allowing out-of-state attorneys to provide temporary legal services to low-income Alaskans. Lawyers may work online at their convenience through Free Legal Answers, an internet portal provided by the American Bar Association.

The ABA says the online registration will allow attorneys to practice in the state though December 31, 2019. The ABA provides malpractice insurance for all lawyers who help with pro bono services.

The disaster survivors need assistance with a host of legal needs, including insurance, housing, contracting, and more.

"It Was Anarchy"

The Alaska earthquake, starting with a 7.0, rattled on for days. It triggered a tsunami warning, but no deaths or injuries were reported.

Roads broke into pieces, a downtown building cracked, and ceiling tiles fell in a local school. One man reported that he was soaking in his tub when the quake hitting, and the ensuing waves threw him from the tub.

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