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Dean Andrews to Tackle Justice Gap on Statewide Committee

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Citing an inability for New York state to keep pace with the demand for basic legal services by those who cannot afford an attorney, Chief Judge Jonathan Lippman formed the Committee on Non-Lawyers and the Justice Gap, appointing Albany Law School President and Dean Penelope (Penny) Andrews as one of 22 committee members.

The committee will examine how appropriately trained and qualified non-lawyer advocates can help provide guidance in simple civil matters for the many New York state residents who need counsel but cannot pay for an attorney. The committee, which will focus on housing, elder law, and consumer credit, is comprised of representatives from the courts, legal service providers, the bar, law schools, community-based service providers and other committed stakeholders from around the state.

Dean Andrews is also maintaining a busy speaking schedule this spring and summer, with plans to deliver the keynote address at the Early Care & Learning Council's 2013 Annual Meeting & Luncheon on June 5, 2013. On May 22, 2013, Dean Andrews delivered the keynote address at the Annual Meeting and Volunteer Recognition Reception for Upper Hudson Planned Parenthood, Inc. She also traveled to Oneida, Saratoga and Warren counties over three days in early May to address each region's bar association in a series of Law Day celebrations.

Dean Andrews' teaching and advocacy for indigenous populations, with a focus on women’s rights, span numerous countries. Her most recent book is From Cape Town to Kabul: Rethinking Strategies for Pursuing Women’s Human Rights. An annual award in her name—The Penelope E. Andrews Human Rights Award—is given by the South African law school at the University of KwaZulu-Natal.

Penelope Andrews sitting on a table