A new initiative is helping address Alabama’s “legal deserts” by recruiting newly licensed attorneys to practice in underserved areas.
Bridging the Legal Gap
According to the American Bar Association, communities with a population-to-attorney ratio of 1,000 to one or worse are considered legal deserts. Harvesters of Hope, a nonprofit organization, recently placed two attorneys in Scottsboro and Moulton to serve these areas. Executive Director Tom Heflin explained that 42 of Alabama’s 67 counties face a shortage of legal professionals. As older lawyers retire, rural areas often struggle to attract new attorneys.
Supporting Young Attorneys
Harvesters of Hope offers startup lawyers a $10,000 forgivable loan to offset the costs of opening a local practice. Nick Cavender, a recent law school graduate, started his career in Moulton under the mentorship of Jerome Thompson at Thompson and Associates. Dylan Cooper opened his own practice in Scottsboro with program support. Both say the experience gives them more courtroom exposure and practical skills than larger city firms typically provide.
Making Legal Help Accessible
Working in rural counties allows attorneys to meet local needs directly. Cooper notes that Jackson County, with roughly 53,000 residents, has only about 15 practicing lawyers. Cavender said that being nearby saves residents long trips to larger cities for legal assistance. Both young lawyers agree that serving in these communities is rewarding and gives them unique insight into local legal needs.
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