Civil Appeals Clinic

Attorneys provide Limited Assistance Representation (LAR) to clients, meaning they are only involved in the case for that day. Not trained in LAR? Watch a training and read required materials.

HOW IT WORKS

• A paralegal or law student screens interested clients for eligibility
• A VLP attorney matches the client with a volunteer attorney.
• The volunteer attorney may:
  • Assess whether a final judgment exists and calculate any deadlines
  • Give general advice concerning appellate issues and procedure
  • Advise the litigant in making the strategic decision to appeal or to continue seeking relief in the trial court
  • Provide and assist with self-help materials, other resources, forms and motions.
• Volunteer attorneys also assess whether a litigant’s case should be reviewed for further representation. They consider whether the appeal is meritorious, falls within the VLP priority issue areas, has broad-based implications for low-income people and/or constitutes a legal error.  If so, the volunteer may recommend that the case be sent for a second layer of merit-based screening by experienced appellate attorneys and legal services experts.

We have forms, files, reference materials and other necessary items for volunteer attorneys.

BENEFITS OF VOLUNTEERING

• Limited Assistance Representation means you start and finish with your client on the same day; no greater commitment with court proceedings or legal services needed.
• Mentorship: Our newer attorneys learn from more experienced attorneys, and more seasoned lawyers get the chance to mentor and guide.
• Networking: Meet fellow attorneys in your area of practice and get connected with other legal professionals.

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