As time goes on and students find themselves with increased legal responsibilities, they may not know where to turn for advice. Whether entering a lease or defending a speeding ticket, services are available to help students make informed decisions regarding their legal troubles.
The most common legal issues that students face are landlord/tenant issues, vehicular violations, and criminal and civil court procedures, according to Michael Carney, director of Group Legal Services.
GLS, a subsidiary of Sub Board I, Inc., is one of the many resources available to UB students. The service currently has six licensed practicing attorneys on staff for consultation. Funded through the mandatory student activity fee, student visits to GLS are free.
Through GLS, students can receive representation and advice prior to an appearance before the Student Wide Judiciary, the judicial department of the student government.
"Knowing how to deal with a legal mishap, and what your options are is the first step in resolving any legal matter," said Carney.
"Avoiding legal problems when going into situations such as apartment rental, vehicle purchasing, and tax or loan issues is more likely if one enters into them with a full knowledge of their rights and applicable laws."
GLS attorneys cannot represent students in a public off-campus court setting, nor can GLS attorneys counsel any student involved in a Student versus Student situation, because both parties have equal use of their services.
GLS is not only useful for those with legal problems, but also for students studying law, or those who have an interest in legal issues and proceedings.
"Students have to read the fine print. There are a lot of people who, for some reason, think that a contract doesn't have any substance - that they can change their minds," said Andrew Dorey, a third year law student.
In addition to the attorneys, GLS has several student volunteers who act as researchers and aid attorneys in preparing for student judiciary hearings, as well as help prepare pamphlets and seminars that inform and help students gain a clearer insight into the workings of the legal system.
"I think you can trust (GLS) on the basis that they are upperclassmen in a field that concentrates on legal studies or pre-law," said sophomore Seth Keller, a legal studies major.
However, many students remain unaware of the services GLS provides.
"I've never even heard of (GLS). They probably could have helped me with some of my speeding tickets" said Ryan Grobosky, a senior media studies major.
Other students say that despite the availability of such services, they would be reluctant to utilize them in serious legal situations.
"If it was for a misdemeanor, I would ask their advice. But if it was really serious, like a felony, I'd consult a real lawyer," said Jason George, a junior management information systems major.
For more information about Group Legal Services, visit 377 Student Union or call 645-3056.
Photo: Meredith Forrest Kulwicki
