Before Atticus Said, "Yes" (A Play Encouraging Pro Bono Participation)

Legal Aid of East Tennessee - 080046

Abstract Number: 080046

May 2008

Legal Aid of East Tennessee (LAET) developed an innovative way of encouraging pro bono participation among the private bar. LAET developed a play, "Before Atticus Said, "Yes,"" in which an LAET attorney, a local judge, and members of the private bar have active roles.  The play is based on the novel, "To Kill a Mocking Bird," and addresses what might have been considerations by the local legal community leading up to Atticus Finch agreeing to represent Tom Robinson, an African American accused of sexually assaulting a young white woman. 

The program brings out many insightful thoughts and questions.  For example, the program raises the question of why would it not have been more appropriate to appoint a single, younger attorney needing experience and without responsibilities rather than an older, established one.  The discussion portion raises civil right to counsel considerations among others such as the role of the media.  The play encourages pro bono work by emphasizing Atticus Finch's decision-making process in accepting the case. 

LAET offers a 55 minute long DVD which is divided into three parts. The first part includes the role play, the second part includes a discussion by the actors of issues raised, and the third part shares a question and answer session between the audience and the actors. To access the DVD please click here

Contact Information

David R Yoder
Executive Director
Legal Aid of East Tennessee
dyoder@laet.org

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