Charleston Legal Access’ spotlight is shining bright on Temitope ‘Tope’ Leyimu, Board Member of CLA and Associate at Motley Rice. Tope’s passion for our mission and serving her community is inspiring. We are grateful for her leadership on our Board of Directors over the last 2 and a half years.
CLA: We are so grateful to have you on our Board of Directors, Tope. Why did you get involved with CLA?
Tope: My late dear friend Sally Newman founded CLA and I had the honor of watching her establish such a necessary and effective organization in the community. Inspired by CLA's inception and impact, when I was approached to be on the board I was thrilled to join and serve in this capacity.
CLA: The legacy that Sally has left behind is incredible. What’s been the most inspiring or rewarding aspect of being on the Board of Directors?
Tope: Seeing the actual difference this organization makes in the lives of the people in our community on a day to day basis is rewarding beyond words.
CLA: Absolutely… so why is affordable legal services and expanding access to justice important to you?
Tope: There should be no barrier to justice no matter what your background is, socio-economic or otherwise. However, we know that people from disadvantaged communities experience disproportionate inequities, including access to quality legal representation. As a lawyer, I am particularly attuned to how important it is to help navigate people through the complexities of the legal system and advocate on their behalf to achieve fair and equitable remedies.
There should be no barrier to justice no matter what your background is, socio-economic, or otherwise.
Tope said it best… access to justice matters. Thank you for your service and dedication to expanding access to affordable legal services.
Charleston Legal Access is Charleston's first nonprofit, sliding-scale law firm. We do not provide free legal services, but we will work at a price that those of moderate means can afford. Hourly rates are determined on an individual basis by a client's income and family size. Our initial screening and phone consultations with an attorney are completely free. In-person, 1-2 hour case consultations and limited assistance sessions are available for a flat fee of $50-$100.
With client fees only covering 25% of our operational expenses and a rise in demand for services, we are seeking like-minded partners to support our cause. Help us expand access to justice and legal representation by making a tax-deductible donation below.