Law NGO gives legal aid to poor Pretorians
The Pretoria central based non-governmental law organisation fights legal battles for the poor.
A Pretoria central non governmental law organisation has been taking on battles for the poor for two years and is not slowing down.
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ProBono.Org situated at Kutlwanong Democracy Centre building on Visagie Street provides free legal representation, legal advice and education to the poor.
The centre was established 10 years ago by lawyers in Johannesburg and the Pretoria branch, two years ago.
Manager Neo Chokoe said ProBono.Org had assisted a number of people win cases they otherwise couldn’t have alone.
“Some couldn’t even afford legal representation or advice,” said Chokoe.
“Our existence is a response to the lack of access to justice for people who are unable to pay for their own private legal representation.”
Chokoe said ProBono.Org had taken up cases referred to it by NGOs and other community-based organisations.
“We function as a general legal clearing house. We get people to meet with our lawyers and help them with free legal advice,” she explained.
The centre also offered law students mentorship and training, and graduates training on child representation, refugee law, drafting of lease agreements, wills and other legal issues.
“We also host workshops and training for private lawyers on various topics of law free of charge to capacitate them to do the work that we refer to them,” said Chokeo.
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“The centre’s reach is not limited to communities in Mabopane, Mooiplaas and Mamelodi but also other parts of the country where ProBono.Org offices exist and through a partnership with Law Society of SA.
“We have also partnered with the CCMA to host workshops on Labour Law matters for both lawyers and communities.
“Our office has become a social justice hub where client’s rights are realised.”
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