PART XI. OKLAHOMA ACCESS TO JUSTICE COMMISSION
- 1. There is a clear need for a statewide planning process for legal services to low income Oklahomans.
- 2. Many gaps exist in developing a comprehensive, integrated statewide civil legal-services delivery system in Oklahoma.
- 3. Many low income Oklahomans are unable to receive full representation on civil legal matters; inadequate funding and well-intentioned but uncoordinated efforts stand in the way of a fully integrated civil legal-services delivery system.
- 4. While many organizations throughout the state share a commitment to improving access to justice, no single group has ultimate responsibility of progress on these issues.
- 5. Leadership that is accepted by the various organizations committed to achieving full access, and empowered to take action, is essential to realizing equal justice for all in Oklahoma.
6. As the head of the judicial branch of the State of Oklahoma, the Oklahoma Supreme Court is a logical entity to create an Access to Justice Commission to serve as the umbrella organization for all efforts to expand access to justice in civil matters in Oklahoma. The Commission would serve as a coordinator to assist all participants in developing strategic alliances to effectively move ideas into action. The Commission would report annually on its progress to the Oklahoma Supreme Court.
Historical Data Adopted by order of the Supreme Court, 2014 OK 16, effective March 13, 2014.
RULE 1.400 - FINDINGS
The Supreme Court hereby finds: