Reflection on Constitution Day – Op Ed

Constitution Day, September 17th, marks the signing of the United States Constitution, the document that serves as the bedrock of our nation and the guarantor of our rights. This year, as we reflect on its principles, we must ask ourselves a simple, yet urgent, question, is the promise of equal justice for all still a reality? The American Bar Association has recently cautioned that our justice system is at serious risk. It’s a reminder that this isn’t an abstract debate; it’s a battle for the very soul of our democracy. 

The rule of law states that no one is above or below the law—from our highest government officials to our humblest citizens. But for this principle to hold true, everyone must have the ability to navigate our legal system. Here in the United States, most people don’t realize that in civil cases—those involving housing, family law, or benefits—there is no right to an attorney. For low-income individuals facing the loss of their home or the safety of their children, this creates an overwhelming and unfair imbalance. 

 For nearly 50 years, NLS has provided free civil legal services, acting as a crucial counterbalance to an often-overwhelming system. We are on the front lines, fighting alongside clients on the brink of losing their homes, struggling to put food on the table, or trying to escape dangerous living situations. We further prioritize standing up for our veterans and people with disabilities, ensuring they receive the support and dignity they deserve. For us, this is not just job, it’s a passion about helping real people in our community facing difficult life challenges. Every case we take is a chance to change someone’s life for the better, to improve a neighbor’s situation, and make our community stronger. 

 In addition to representing clients in litigated matters, NLS has advocates at the Family Justice Center, the Buffalo Veterans Administration Medical Center, and the Buffalo and Niagara Falls City Courts. NLS works with medical service providers to provide for the legal needs of many in need of assistance when they are at their most vulnerable.  NLS also partners with community organizations throughout western New York to provide outreach and training in rural and underserved areas.   

Simply put, access to justice is the equal opportunity to understand and assert one’s rights, irrespective of financial status.   Nobody should be shut out of our nation’s promise under the Rule of Law to equal access to justice. 

As the American Bar Association recently cautioned, our justice system is facing serious risks that threaten the fundamental rule of law. Consequently, I urge readers to support our NLS’ mission of “Bringing Equal Justice for All, One Client at a Time.”. 

By: William (Bill) O’Connell Executive Director of Neighborhood Legal Services and former Regional Director of HUD and founder of the Homeless Alliance of Western New York.