MARCH 2026 | 69 THE OKLAHOMA BAR JOURNAL To contact Executive Director Johnson, email her at janetj@okbar.org. simply pointing someone in the right direction can alleviate uncertainty and prevent minor issues from becoming major crises. More information on how to volunteer for Heroes Day 2026 will be coming soon, so please stay on the lookout! FREE LEGAL ANSWERS: BRIDGING THE RURAL JUSTICE GAP Access to justice challenges are particularly acute in rural communities. Geographic distance, limited attorney availability, and economic barriers can leave individuals without meaningful options when legal issues arise. Programs like Oklahoma Free Legal Answers help bridge that gap. Whether you practice in a large city or a small town, technology allows you to extend your reach. Responding to online questions, participating in a remote clinic, or traveling to a designated rural event can provide critical guidance to individuals who might otherwise go without counsel entirely. For many lawyers, pro bono service in rural settings offers a refreshing perspective. It reminds us that behind every statute and procedural rule is a person seeking clarity, stability, or peace of mind. These interactions are often concise but impactful, and they reaffirm the tangible value of our training and experience. Signing up as a program volunteer is easy! To register online, visit oklahoma.freelegalanswers.org and click “Attorney Registration.” FAQs for volunteer attorneys are also available. Once your membership is verified, you can log in at any time and browse questions in a variety of practice areas. For more information, reach out to OBA MAP Director Julie Bays, julieb@okbar.org, who facilitates this program for Oklahoma lawyers. A PROFESSIONAL GOAL AND A PERSONAL RENEWAL Volunteering at these events is also an opportunity to connect with colleagues across practice areas and generations. The shared experience of service strengthens our professional community and reinforces the values that unite us. Pro bono work benefits the public, but it also benefits us. It sharpens skills, broadens perspectives, and reinforces our professional purpose. It strengthens public confidence in the legal system and demonstrates that lawyers are committed to more than billable hours. This spring, consider setting a concrete goal: volunteer at a Law Day/Ask A Lawyer event, sign up for Heroes Day, or answer a set number of questions through Oklahoma Free Legal Answers. Invite a colleague or mentor a younger lawyer by volunteering together. Encourage your firm or office to participate. As the season changes, let us all spring into action by renewing our shared commitment to service. The rule of law depends not only on courts and statutes but also on lawyers willing to give their time and expertise. Spring is a natural time to begin again, and there is no better way to do so than by stepping forward to serve.
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