The Oklahoma Bar Journal October 2026

Pro Bono: A Promise of Justice for All F rom the P resident By Amber Peckio

A S LAWYERS, WE ARE FORTUNATE TO practice in a profession built on the principle that the law should serve everyone – not just those who can afford an attorney. Yet for too many peo ple, access to justice remains out of reach simply because they cannot afford legal representation. That is why pro bono service is not merely an admirable contribution to our communities. It is an essential part of ensuring that our justice system works as it should. The need is significant. According to the Legal Services Corporation, low-income Americans received no or inadequate legal help for 92% of the civil legal problems that substantially affected their

enhance the public trust by providing quality legal services to those in need. It is an opportunity to put our skills to work for someone who otherwise may have no meaningful opportunity to be heard. One case can make an enormous difference. A few hours spent answering questions at a legal clinic can help someone understand their rights. Helping a victim of domestic violence obtain legal protection can provide a path toward safety. Representing a family facing the loss of their home can help keep that family housed. Drafting a will for an emergency responder can pro vide peace of mind and protection for loved ones. These are not simply legal services. They are oppor tunities to change lives. Our inaugural Heroes Day Event, co-sponsored by the OBA Military Assistance Committee and the Oklahoma Access to Justice Foundation, will take place this Veterans Day, Nov. 11 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. This will be an in-person clinic providing a wide range of pro bono legal services to those who have honorably served our nation. Learn more and see volunteer registration information on page 83 of this journal.

lives. 1 These problems are not abstract legal questions. They involve housing, health care, income, family matters, safety, and other issues that can fundamentally alter a person’s life. For someone facing eviction, trying to protect a child, seeking ben efits, dealing with domestic violence or fighting to keep a home, the legal system can be complicated and intimi dating. Without an attorney, navigating that system can feel nearly impossible. And unlike in criminal cases, there generally is no constitu tional right to an attorney in civil matters, even when the consequences are profound. This is where each of us can make a difference. Pro bono is a great way to

Amber Peckio is a solo practitioner with the Amber Law Group of Tulsa. 918-895-7216 amber@amberlawgroup.com

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4 | OCTOBER 2026

THE OKLAHOMA BAR JOURNAL