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Group aims to level the justice playing field
Published 12:00 p.m., June 4, 2007
The name is different but the goal of being a voice for “the little guy” has not changed, said Chris Messerly, Minnesota Association for Justice (MNAJ) president. Until April, it was known as the Minnesota Trial Lawyers Association.
“The name change better reflects what we do, which is fight for justice,” Messerly said. Made up of trial attorneys, “What we do is help consumers and families. We try to level the playing field against those with more money and power in society. We want everyone to have a fighting chance.”
For communities such as Fergus Falls, said Matt McGovern of Pemberton, Sorlie, Rufer, Kershner Law Firm of Fergus Falls, it bridges gaps for people in rural communities seeking legal justice.
“In the cities, it’s easier to be in contact with larger companies,” he said. “A lot of people here find themselves dealing with large corporations in the cities. We can make that easier. The attorneys may be in competition with each other, but we all have the same goal of helping people find justice. If we can’t help them, we have a resource of member attorneys and we can put them in contact with someone who can.”
Formed in 1954, the purpose of MNAJ is promoting justice; using members’ law experience for public good; and advancing the cause of those damaged in person, property or civil rights.
The MNAJ also works at the legislative level, lobbying to get bills passed it feels will benefit the general public.
One example is the Good Faith Bill during the most recent session. Had it passed, Messerly said, it would have required insurance companies to “treat consumers fairly and handle their claims in a timely fashion.” The MNAJ will continue to fight for its passage in 2008.
“It’s a great group of people who try to help people with limited resources,” McGovern said.
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For more information: mnaj.org.
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