The PLEA Project delivers legal education in prisons to assist inmates to proactively handle their legal cases.
Our aim is to provide inmates with the knowledge and skills needed to gain control in an environment where they may feel powerless.
We recognise the structural, psychological and cultural barriers that can prevent access to and participation in the justice system. We seek to overcome these barriers by empowerment through practical legal education.
Organisation
The PLEA Project is run entirely volunteer run and based at the Monash-Oakleigh Legal Service.
We have over 35 active volunteers, primarily law students, with a strong understanding of legal processes, excellent communication skills and a commitment to improving access to justice.
The PLEA Project currently operates in the Metropolitan Remand Centre, the Dame Phyllis Frost Centre, the Port Phillip Prison, and the Parkville Youth Justice Precinct.
Our legal workshops cover topics including:
Court readiness;
Family law;
Parole readiness;
Dealing with police;
Sentencing; and
Working with lawyers.
