PHX Reporter

The Law Library Resource Center, a division of the Judicial Branch of Arizona in Maricopa County, is acknowledging the significant contributions of Providing Access to Court Services (PACS) AmeriCorps members during AmeriCorps Week. This nationwide celebration, running from March 9-15, emphasizes the vital role that AmeriCorps members play in community support and justice access.

For ten years, AmeriCorps members at the Law Library Resource Center have offered personalized assistance to self-represented litigants. They help individuals understand court forms and processes related to various cases including protective orders, family, civil, probate, criminal, and juvenile matters. This service is available to anyone who contacts or visits one of the center's locations or attends off-site events.

“The goal for this 10th anniversary is that by the end of our program year, AmeriCorps members will have served more than 17,000 self-represented litigants in navigating the judicial process,” said PACS AmeriCorps Program Manager Sonia Marquez. “In addition, they have provided over 280 translations for individuals who speak other languages, escorted over 300 members of the public to different areas of the courthouse and provided over 800 informational handouts.”

Joining as an AmeriCorps member offers a chance to meet essential community needs while gaining practical experience assisting court customers. During onboarding sessions, new members learn about state courts and program expectations. Members can also apply for positions within the justice system and Judicial Branch.

“My time at the LLRC taught me how to effectively communicate legal information to the public, assist individuals in high-stress situations, and navigate court procedures,” said AmeriCorps Alumni Erick Favela Herrera. He added that these skills led him to professional growth opportunities including an internship with Civil and Lower Court of Appeals Department and a Judicial Externship with Judge Bruce Cohen.

Self-represented litigants often face challenges when navigating court systems; many visit LLRC during difficult times seeking relief from their circumstances. Through courtroom observations and tours across all departments within Judicial Branches' services offerings—Americorps members are equipped with knowledge needed provide detailed customer service assistance public requires most urgently today.

Members receive living allowances throughout their service period contributing communities around them meaningfully before being awarded education grants upon completion furthering academic/professional goals beyond current commitments made possible through PACS’ partnership Governor’s Office Youth Faith Family established decade ago now seeing results: Over four hundred seventy positions awarded nearly three hundred thirty completed since inception back then till date still counting forward positively impacting lives every day more ways imaginable yet!

For additional details on Providing Access Court Services (PACS) program please visit: https://superiorcourt.maricopa.gov/llrc/americorps/.

AmeriCorps serves as federal agency connecting people organizations tackling nation’s pressing challenges via volunteering efforts nationwide today tomorrow always!