Administration of Justice Grant Program

The North Carolina IOLTA's Administration of Justice Grants program is dedicated to improving the administration of justice within North Carolina. This program aligns with the foundation's mission by focusing on areas where grants can have a measurable impact on the justice system's effectiveness and expediency. Key areas of funding include improving the operation and management of the justice system, public education and understanding about the law, promotion and support for a full range of dispute resolution techniques and alternatives, and promotion and support for public interest legal representation. The primary beneficiaries of this program are North Carolina residents who are indigent, defined as individuals at or below 200% of the federal poverty guidelines or eligible for public assistance. Programs may also consider other factors like access to liquid assets, fixed debts, obligations, and family size. The goal is to provide services without charge, though nominal fees with complete waiver options are permitted, especially in areas where legal services are otherwise unavailable to low-income clients. The impact goals are centered on enhancing access to justice for those who cannot afford legal assistance, thereby strengthening the overall justice system. Funding criteria prioritize applicants seeking start-up funds or seed money for new projects, programs offering services to individuals who do not qualify for civil legal aid but cannot afford legal assistance (including pro bono programs), programs with demonstration value or replication potential, initiatives with statewide significance, and requests for matching funds. The program specifically avoids funding direct service programs (e.g., counseling), replicas of established programs, local community groups unrelated to the practice of law, programs for which there is governmental funding responsibility, and continuing program support for local projects exceeding three years. The expected outcomes include a more effective and expeditious justice system in North Carolina, increased public understanding of the law, broader access to dispute resolution techniques, and stronger public interest legal representation. By focusing on these strategic priorities, NC IOLTA aims to foster a justice system that is more accessible, equitable, and efficient for all North Carolina residents, particularly those with limited financial means. The theory of change is that targeted investments in the operational aspects of the justice system, coupled with efforts to educate the public and support legal aid, will lead to significant improvements in how justice is administered across the state. The grant period for these projects is January 1 – December 31, 2025.