Bezaire, Ledwitz and Associates is very interested and active in participating in its community and helping whenever it can. One attorney, Melinda Ellis, recently gave of herself and her time for free at a Southern California event in the city of Arcadia, known as Law Day.

The 10th annual event, Law Day 2008 was a walk-up event where members of the public were given the opportunity to have a one-on-one consultation with an attorney. It was co-sponsored by the city of Arcadia and the Arcadia Chinese Association.

Law Day is held once a year on the second Saturday in May at the Arcadia Public Library from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. It is open to everyone, you do not need to be a resident to participate, it is free and translation service in Chinese is available.

Ellis was one of 29 attorneys who participated and gave advice on estate planning matters. Other areas of law represented included family law, business, real estate, landlord/tenant issues, intellectual property, bankruptcy and criminal matters, said Kristen Olafson, spokesperson for the city of Arcadia.

"I spoke with individuals who had specific questions about estate planning," Ellis said. "There was a big crowd there with great interest to learn about the law and how everyone is affected. We could give guidance and direction, but we could not solicit business. We could give referrals, though."

And what were the most common questions Ellis was asked?

"I got questions ranging from living trusts and wills to fit people's needs to community versus separate property to duties of trustees and what to do if a trustee is not living up to his or her fiduciary duties."

Ellis added this was also "an opportunity to meet other attorneys in other facets of law and other members of the community."

In addition, Ellis said she was very impressed by the people who turned out for the event - which totaled 240 clients, as well as how well it was put on by the city of Arcadia.

"It was a great turnout - a lot of people in attendance," she said. "People seemed very appreciative that they were being pointed in the right direction."

And would she do it again?

"I would definitely do it again," Ellis said.

All and all, it was a day well spent by Bezaire, Ledwitz and Associates.