Justice is a journey, not a destination.

Access to critical legal services is fundamental for North Carolinians to thrive, yet limited resources and insufficient funding have left many low-income residents without the support they deserve. In fact, there is only one legal aid attorney for every 8,000 eligible residents in the state, leaving countless individuals and families without essential legal advice or representation in court.

Without equal access to justice, many people are forced to navigate a complex and often intimidating legal system on their own, unaware of their rights or lacking the guidance needed to protect them. This puts their basic needs and rights in jeopardy — especially in historically underserved communities, where access to legal representation remains disproportionately low.

Research shows that low-income and underserved populations are more likely to face serious challenges, such as predatory consumer scams, evictions and health care challenges, that require legal intervention. Without the necessary guidance, these communities are left vulnerable to unfair outcomes. Today, as unemployment, health insurance loss and housing instability affect so many people across the state, the gaps in legal support are only growing wider.

As the philanthropic arm of the North Carolina State Bar, NC IOLTA steps in to address this critical need. Approved by the North Carolina Supreme Court, NC IOLTA provides vital funding to ensure that all North Carolinians have access to high-quality legal assistance. Research consistently shows that even a small amount of legal help can make a big difference — helping families stay in their homes, preventing unjust trial outcomes and lifting individuals out of poverty. Access to justice is not just about legal representation; it is about ensuring for everyone fairness and equity before the law.