Are your current legal needs being met?

The Missouri Bar is inviting Missouri residents from the Barry County area to help answer that question and more during a public listening session Nov. 17, beginning at 10 a.m., in the Circuit Courtroom at the Barry County Justice Center.

Organized by The Missouri Bar’s Special Committee on Rural Practice, the event will provide a chance for community members to discuss the challenges and opportunities rural residents encounter when seeking lawyers and legal services.

“The Missouri Bar’s mission is to improve the lives of Missourians,” said Shelly Dreyer, 2024-2025 Missouri Bar president and committee co-chair. “Across Missouri, we are hearing concerns about access to legal services in rural communities. While we know there are challenges, we don’t yet fully understand the scope of the issue.”

Community members, local leaders, business owners, lawyers, and anyone interested in the future of legal services in rural Missouri are encouraged to attend.

Residents can also share their experiences by completing an online survey: MoBar.org/RuralLaw.

Gathered feedback will inform potential policy and program recommendations from the committee to help ensure adequate legal services for all Missouri residents.