Students have their own legal eagles on campus

By Ron Gregg, Special to the On-Line Forty-Niner

Thursday, December 3, 1998

Students amidst legal disputes may uncover the missing link as Cal State Long Beach continues the tradition of free legal advice, a service of the Associated Students Inc.

The Legal Aid Commission, which has been in existence since the 1970s, provides on-site legal experts for inquiring students Tuesdays from 6 to 7:30 p.m. in USU-201C.

Tobias Halvarson, senior political science major, volunteers as commissioner for the A.S.I. Legal Aid Commission. Halvarson said students come in with a wide range of questions, ranging from credit problems to tenant-landlord disputes.

"The law can be complex and overwhelming, I want students to know that there is help available," Halvarson said.

Volunteer lawyers give advice, conduct research or offer referrals to other agencies if the case is too complex.

The center provides resource materials for pre-law students including study guides and other review materials for the LSAT.

Counseling regarding the law profession is also available, as well as applications to local law schools.

Paul Marron, attorney at the center, is a member of Inns of Court, a local organization of lawyers who emphasize ethical practices.

Marron said that most students are coming for peace of mind.

The center recommends students have their case summarized into two or three minutes before they come to talk with an attorney.

This will maximize the 15 minutes that they have with an attorney.

"I came here for legal advice on how to represent myself," said Ed Connolly, senior business administration major.

Connolly was inquiring about a work related injury during his second visit to the center.

The commission will be hosting the Law School Admissions Forum for pre-law students on Feb. 17, 1999 in the University Student Union.

Law school deans, lawyers and other organizations will attend and be available for questions.