Law building named after Hamra

The office of Legal Services of Southern Missouri, 809 N. Campbell Ave., yesterday was dedicated as the Sam F. Hamra Center for Justice, after the longtime Springfield businessman and attorney.

Hamra, who earned his law degree from University of Missouri and worked as an attorney in the Springfield area before founding Hamra Enterprises, was instrumental in the establishment of the Legal Aid Association of Greene County, now known as Legal Services of Southern Missouri. In 1976, Hamra served as the first chairman of the board for the organization, which provides free or legal assistance to people living at or below the poverty level, according to a news release.

"Legal Services has been Sam's labor of love, and its value are his values," said John Danforth, former Missouri attorney general and U.S. senator, in a letter written to Legal Services of Southern Missouri. "A highly regarded attorney and successful businessman, Sam has been a major contributor to civic life in Springfield and beyond."

Speakers at the dedication ceremony were Sen. Roy Blunt, Missouri Attorney General Chris Koster, University of Missouri Chancellor Brady Deaton, and Hamra's son, Mike Hamra, president and CEO of Hamra Enterprises. Criminal trial attorney Dee Wampler served as master of ceremonies, the release said.

Legal Services of Southern Missouri receives about 11,000 applications per year and is able to assist about 2,500 people. The organization, which operates offices in Springfield, West Plains, Rolla, Charleston, and Cape Girardeau, serves Greene County and 42 others, according to the organization.[[In-content Ad]]