"Representative Oelslager is a true statesman and a deserving recipient of the 2006 OLAF Presidential Award. We are very fortunate to have such a good friend of legal aid services in Representative Oelslager," states David C. Weiner, a partner with Squire, Sanders & Dempsey in Cleveland and the Foundation's Board President, in announcing this year's recipients. The Award is presented annually to law firms, organizations or individuals who have made outstanding efforts in improving access to legal representation for those who cannot afford it through pro bono or volunteer service in Ohio.

"Representative Oelslager championed the inclusion of an increase to an existing filing fee within the Governor's budget and defended it in the legislature. In addition to the more routine legislative management, he facilitated resolution of issues involving: interpretation of proposed language; controversy regarding application of the surcharge to certain new case areas; and, other last-minute and unanticipated challenges to the proposed increase," explained Robert Clyde, Executive Director, Ohio Legal Assistance Foundation, on why Oelslager deserved this award. "Without his leadership, we would not have achieved this filing fee increase or the additional resources that will be generated to support Ohio's legal aid delivery system. As a direct result of his efforts, more resources will be available in Ohio to assist low-income individuals and families with their legal needs," states Clyde.

Representative Oelslager is Of Counsel with the Okey Law Firm in Canton. Oelslager also has an impeccable history in legislation and politics embodied by his 2003 election as State Representative to the 51st Ohio House district, which he currently holds. Previously he served as State Senator representing most of Stark County, Ohio from 1985 until 2002. Among Scott's most recent noted achievements are the 2004 Outstanding Legislator of the Year award bestowed by the Franklin County Trial Lawyers Association, and the Friend of Education Award in 2002 awarded by the East Central Ohio Education Association for outstanding efforts in supporting education.

Created by the Ohio Legislature in 1994, the Ohio Legal Assistance Foundation, in partnership with the state and local bar associations, elected officials, and local legal aid providers, the Foundation coordinates resource development, provides efficient distribution of legal aid funds, and promotes innovative approaches to ensure justice for all.

For more information about efforts to provide equal access to justice for all persons in Ohio, contact OLAF at 614-752-8919 or visit the OLAF Web site at www.olaf.org.