BUSINESS NEWS: LAW FIRM TAKES LEAD IN COST CRISIS

Star and Associates offers 'pro bono' services to citizens facing financial hardship

BY BAILEY MOREVILLE
EDITORIAL PARTNER




THE ONLY Titulian law firm to-date to register with the Court for Legal Aid, the innovative STAR AND ASSOCIATES LAWYERS has taken the lead to assist clients in the republic with little financial means. At present there is no government or private service available for poor citizens requiring legal representation.

Leading the charge for a cost-effective system designed to help citizens that need legal representation are Chief Justice Dr. Manhaton and Star and Associates Principal T. J. Norton. The debate over the future establishment of Legal Aid Titulia is raging with many conservatives and liberals alike coining the program as 'Government-sponsored welfare for law firms'.

At present, both functional branches of the Titulian Government are facing increased opposition to the move and advocates in-favour of a fair and inexpensive system.

Star and Associates Principal T. J. Norton said that his firm will guarantee representation to any citizen requiring legal assistance, regardless of financial circumstances.

"I created this firm for two reasons; my legal background and zeal for the practice of law and for citizens to have someone they can turn to when they need them most", he said.

Mr Norton said that he fully supported both the efforts of Chief Justice Dr. Manhaton to reach agreement with the Republic on establishing a program to assist with the costs of legal representation.

"Obviously there will be a lot of discussion and disagreement and that's a matter for the political establishment to sort out. My concern as a law firm principal is that Titulians can achieve professional legal representation in the General Court if they wish to be represented", he said.

There is no word yet on whether competing firm Manhattan LLP will back Star's position.


Star and Associates cautioned against legally untrained citizens opting to self-represent in the General Court due to the majority of court justices and Titulian legal representatives having real-life law experience or training.

"The current make-up of the bench and the very competent counsel in the Republic's legal profession could potentially lead to a defendant charting unimaginably difficult waters in a civil or criminal suit. Especially on arguing points of law", Norton said.

In the real world, Mr Norton holds a Bachelor of Laws and has recently completed university enrolment to commence his Masters of Laws postgraduate study part-time. Norton praised the conduct of competing firm Manhattan LLP.

"Whether citizens choose Star or Manhattan or any other firm - I believe they will receive nothing but the best in representation and service. Both chambers can boast to enlist talented and competent counsel and I take delight in the amicable relationship between us", he said.


As the case load grows every day, Star and Associates have put out the call for citizens with legal training to apply for the positions of Senior Associate or Associate in their practice. Lawyers are paid at reasonable rates.

Interested candidates can apply by Titulia mail to Mr Norton here or by emailing the firm off-site at star@nortilus.com


The Herald will be following the progress in the discussions to develop the Legal Aid Titulia program.