Free Community Legal Clinic Aims to Reduce Barriers in Prince George's

Council Member Wala Blegay convened a District 6 Community Legal Clinic on December 13 at Reid Temple A.M.E. Church, 11400 Glenn Dale Boulevard, bringing free one on one legal consultations to residents from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM. The event featured the Honorable LaKeecia R. Allen, associate judge for the Prince George's County Circuit Court, alongside other sitting judges and experienced attorneys who offered information and support across a wide range of legal concerns.

Consultations covered expungements, immigration matters, housing and landlord tenant disputes, family law issues, wills trusts and estate planning, and employment and workplace concerns. The clinic was presented in partnership with Community Legal Services, the Nigerian Center, C&J Migrant Solutions and other community organizations. Residents were encouraged to register in advance through the Prince George's County Council website, at pgccouncil.us/CivicAlerts.aspx.

The clinic mattered because legal help is a critical social determinant of health. Access to counsel for housing disputes can prevent evictions that destabilize families, lead to homelessness and worsen chronic health conditions. Guidance on employment rights and immigration status can reduce economic precarity and chronic stress that harms both mental and physical health. For seniors and families, advice on wills and estate planning reduces uncertainty and can prevent costly legal battles that strain household resources.

Bringing judges and legal professionals into a community setting also reduces barriers created by cost, transportation and mistrust of institutions. Local partnerships with immigrant centered organizations and community legal services aimed to make the event accessible to residents who often face language, cultural or financial obstacles in seeking legal help. For Prince George's County, where disparities in income and housing persist, events like this serve both immediate client needs and longer term goals of social equity.

Sustained access to affordable legal assistance remains a public policy priority. Residents seeking more information about legal resources and future clinics can consult the county council website for updates and registration details.