The Role of Community Lawyers in Fighting Economic Inequality: Legal Services as a Path to Social Justice

Abstract

Introduction: Economic inequality is a persistent issue in Indonesia, with large disparities in income, education, and access to resources. Legal services, especially when provided by community lawyers, can help bridge the gap by ensuring that low-income and marginalized individuals have access to the legal tools necessary for achieving economic justice.
Purpose: This paper explores the role of community lawyers in addressing economic inequality, focusing on how their legal services help individuals secure housing, employment, and access to public benefits.
Method: The study combines interviews with community lawyers, case studies of successful legal interventions, and a review of national policies addressing economic justice.
Findings and Results: The study reveals that community lawyers play a pivotal role in ensuring that marginalized individuals are aware of their legal rights and can navigate legal systems to fight economic injustice. Key areas of success include securing workers’ rights and defending against unlawful eviction.
Urgency: With the ongoing expansion of Indonesia’s economy, addressing economic inequality remains urgent, as marginalized communities are at risk of being left further behind without access to legal support.
Contribution: This paper contributes by highlighting the important role community lawyers play in challenging economic inequalities and providing pathways for social justice.
Recommendation: The study recommends expanding community lawyer programs, increasing funding for legal services for the poor, and establishing partnerships between legal services and social justice organizations.