North Carolina issues ‘Katrina Order,’ inviting Florida lawyers to provide pro bono services in hurricane’s wake
In the aftermath of devastating flooding caused by Hurricane Helene, the North Carolina State Bar has issued an urgent appeal for legal assistance to help those affected in the North Carolina mountains.
The storm, which struck last Friday, has left many residents grappling with a myriad of challenges, including lack of power, water, and access to basic services. The damage to homes and businesses is extensive, leaving many without the resources they need to recover.
“The situation is particularly dire right now because, being an inland, mountain region, no one was prepared for this kind of event,” North Carolina State Bar Executive Director Alice Neece Mine said. “We are anticipating an unprecedented need for lawyers to help victims of the storm with the many legal problems that will arise including landlord/tenant issues, consumer fraud, and most specifically FEMA applications.”
In response to this urgent need, the North Carolina Supreme Court has issued an administrative order (Katrina order) that permits attorneys licensed in other states, including Florida, to temporarily register with the North Carolina State Bar to provide pro bono legal services to those impacted by the storm. The order amends the existing rule to facilitate immediate legal assistance for low-income residents facing the aftermath of Hurricane Helene.
The order states: “The Court concludes that the proposed rule amendment would promote the interests of justice and that the petition should be granted.” This amendment is effective immediately, allowing out-of-state lawyers to lend their expertise to those in need without the requirement of being a member of the North Carolina State Bar.
Once registered, these lawyers will have their contact information shared with Legal Aid of North Carolina and other nonprofit organizations involved in disaster relief efforts. This will facilitate connections between volunteer attorneys and those in need of legal assistance.
Mine expressed gratitude for any support from Florida Bar members, emphasizing that their contributions could make a significant difference in the recovery efforts.
“Any volunteer lawyers who can help our beloved mountain communities will be so greatly appreciated,” she said.
For Florida Bar members interested in volunteering, the application form for temporary registration can be obtained here. The form is intended to streamline the process for attorneys wishing to assist in this critical time.
Mine says the need for legal assistance is urgent, as many families are facing challenges in navigating the aftermath of the storm. With the combined efforts of legal professionals across state lines, North Carolina hopes to begin the long road to recovery.
For more information about how to assist and to access the application form, Florida Bar members are encouraged to reach out to the North Carolina State Bar.