08/05/2026
Representative Justis Gibbs (House District 72) has been appointed by the Mississippi Supreme Court to serve a three-year term on the Mississippi Access to Justice Commission, a statewide body dedicated to improving access to the civil justice system for Mississippians who cannot afford legal representation.
Created by the Mississippi Supreme Court in 2006, the Mississippi Access to Justice Commission brings together leaders from the judiciary, legal aid organizations, the private bar, law schools, and community organizations to identify and remove barriers to civil justice across the state. Rather than representing clients directly, the Commission works to strengthen collaboration and develop long-term solutions that expand meaningful access to the legal system.
The Commission's work includes expanding civil legal aid for low-income Mississippians, recruiting attorneys to provide pro bono legal services, developing self-help resources for individuals representing themselves in court, improving court procedures for self-represented litigants, recommending changes to court rules and policies that reduce barriers to justice, and coordinating statewide efforts among legal service providers.
"I am deeply honored by the confidence the Mississippi Supreme Court has placed in me through this appointment," said Representative Gibbs. "Access to justice should not depend on a person's income or ability to afford legal representation. Every Mississippian deserves a fair opportunity to protect their rights, resolve civil legal issues, and navigate our court system with dignity."
Gibbs added, "I believe our strongest work happens when we bring different perspectives to the table. Appointing legal professionals and advocates from diverse communities and different generations only strengthens this Commission's ability to improve access to justice for all Mississippians. Those varied perspectives help ensure we are identifying real barriers to justice and developing solutions that make our civil justice system more accessible, efficient, and equitable."
As both a practicing attorney and a member of the Mississippi House of Representatives, Gibbs brings experience from the courtroom and the legislative process to the Commission. His appointment reflects his continued commitment to public service and improving the institutions that serve Mississippi families.
Representative Gibbs will begin serving his three-year term immediately.
