PENINSULA Community Legal Centre’s Street Law project is continuing its mission despite the impact of COVID-19 restrictions and amid concerns its funding will dry up at the end of the year.
The colourful van delivering free legal services, free coffee and material aid will be back on the road at the end of this month.
The Street Law philosophy is to deliver legal services when and where its clients need them – for free. There are no suits or ties, just a smile, a warm “cuppa” and advice if needed.
Discussing legal issues in this environment is comforting to those who, apart from needing legal assistance, have urgent material needs. “It has been very rewarding to work,” Joe Oliver, the project’s street lawyer said.
“The service is a matter of principle, a duty of care – rather than being performed solely for remuneration. It’s becoming increasingly relevant and necessary with the increasing need for community legal services.”
The lawyer says COVID-19 has exacerbated inequality in the community: more people with financial and legal problems and more who cannot afford a lawyer.
“We aim to provide clients with a holistic service that includes refreshments, legal health checks, advice and referrals,” Mr Oliver said.
“Usually legal advice can be given on the spot and the issues resolved, otherwise the case can be referred to our specialist legal team for follow up.
“We also have a community worker who can provide connections to non-legal services over issues, such as housing, and a wide array of social issues.”
The Street Law van has so far visited Frankston, Hastings, Rosebud, Dromana, Crib Point, Mornington and Somerville. It has space for a coffee and a space to discuss legal services.
“Many Street Law clients haven’t got transportation and would struggle to get legal assistance if it were not for the visiting Street Law service,” Mr Oliver said.
“Many clients do not even know that they have a legal issue until they speak with us. For instance, a client with a fine from Fines Victoria may not identify the issue as a potential legal problem: It could be.
It’s anticipated the Street Law van will be as busy as ever when the current restrictions are lifted. “We have been assisting people who have never before had to use free legal services, as well as an increasing number of people who need material aid,” Mr Oliver said.
“Clients are often waiting for the van’s services upon our arrival, lining up while we set up.”
Funding by Gandel Philanthropy and The Jack Brockhoff Foundation will finish at the end of the year. Peninsula Community Legal Centre is hopeful donors will be found so that their mission can continue.
Anyone needing free confidential legal advice or wanting to find out the Street Law Coffee Van’s schedule can contact the centre 9783 3600 or visit pclc.org.au
