Genesee County, MI — More than 150 staff and community members were in attendance at the grand opening of the Legal Resource Center (LRC) of Genesee County on Friday, celebrating a new space dedicated to helping residents navigate the legal system with greater confidence and understanding.

Located inside the Historic 7th Circuit Courthouse, the center provides access to information, self-help materials, and connections to community resources — all designed to empower individuals who may not have legal representation.

The new and improved LRC is the largest self-help center of its kind in Michigan by square footage.

The expansion of the LRC represents a renewed commitment to the residents of Genesee County — a commitment to fairness, accessibility, and transparency in our justice system.

Judge Newblatt, who is the Chief Judge of Circuit and Probate Courts, thanked everyone who helped turn the dream of the LRC into a reality; he specifically commended Barb Menear, the 7th Circuit Court Administrator, who was the driving force behind the project.

“She’s nothing less than a tour de force; she willed this into existence,” he said. “She’s the greatest court administrator in the state.”

Menear, who also gave remarks, thanked everyone who supported the project, including Genesee County Clerk Domonique Clemons, and the Genesee County Board of Commissioners, who were instrumental in getting the project off the ground.

The LRC partners with numerous local service organizations including the YWCA, Friend of the Court, Genesee County Department of Senior Services and Legal Services of Eastern Michigan.

For more information, contact LRC Director Rachel Hawrylo, at RHawrylo@geneseecountymi.gov.