Clinics & Projects

Suffolk Family Law Clinic

Volunteer attorneys are needed to give legal advice and assist with drafting pleadings on a variety of family law topics including divorce, custody, paternity, contempt and modification actions.

 

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

Clients come to the Court Service Center with their guardianship related need. The CSC send clients to us for screening. From there:

  • A paralegal or law student screens interested clients for eligibility
  • A VLP attorney matches the client with a volunteer attorney.
  • The volunteer attorney:
    • Provides advice and information
    • Drafts pleadings
    • Draft modifications

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.

If you don’t have experience in family law cases, we strongly suggest that you attend one of VLP’s free Family Law trainings before volunteering. Please check our calendar for upcoming training dates.

For more information

Contact paralegal Victoria DeLaney

 

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