Bankruptcy Clinic

Volunteer attorneys at the Bankruptcy Clinic assist clients who are considering filing for Chapter 7 Bankruptcy.  Volunteers will assist clients in assessing their income, property, assets, and debts. Volunteers will advise clients and answer questions about the Chapter 7 Bankruptcy process, discharging debts, collection-proof income, and protecting certain property utilizing MA exemptions. Through this process, volunteers help clients better understand the Chapter 7 Bankruptcy process and decide whether it is the right choice for the client. Volunteers at the Bankruptcy Clinic are supported by VLP’s Bankruptcy Unit attorneys and paralegal.

Volunteer Requirements

• Volunteers at the Bankruptcy Clinic must be attorneys admitted to both the Massachusetts bar and the United States District Court for the District of Massachusetts.

Before participating in VLP’s Bankruptcy Clinic, all new volunteer attorneys must:

1. Watch VLP’s New Volunteer Orientation (or register for the next orientation)

2. Complete VLP’s Volunteer Registration Form and onboarding documents
3. Complete VLP’s Bankruptcy Volunteer Training
4. Become self-certified to provide Limited Assistance Representation by reading the Limited Assistance Representation Training Manual or watching the Limited Assistance Representation Training Video

How it Works

Volunteers at bankruptcy clinics have a few options for participating in bankruptcy clinics. Attorneys can:

• Give a short presentation on bankruptcy and answer questions from client attendees.

• Meet with a client to provide general advice about the process and the advantages and disadvantages for the client.
• Assist clients in accessing and reviewing their credit reports and completing a questionnaire that provides detailed information about their assets and liabilities.  

Benefits of Volunteering

• Limited Assistance Representation means you start and finish with your client on the same day; no further commitment to court proceedings or legal services is needed. 
• Mentorship: Our newer attorneys learn from more experienced attorneys, and more seasoned lawyers get the chance to mentor and guide new attorneys and students. Experienced and knowledgeable attorneys in Bankruptcy law can also become mentors. (details)
• Networking: Meet fellow attorneys in your area of practice and connect with other legal professionals. 
• Vouchers for discounted MCLE Training are available upon request for pro bono attorneys who actively work with us. The Volunteer Lawyers Project provides primary malpractice insurance for all pro bono work.

The Volunteer Lawyers Project provides primary malpractice insurance for all pro bono work.