Frequently Asked Questions

No time for a full case? You can still:

(1) take a case for Limited Assistance Representation (LAR). LAR refers to taking a case for a limited time period or for a limited purpose such as a specific hearing.

(2) Volunteer at Lawyer for the Day Projects or Clinics.

(3) If you are an experienced attorney, you can serve as a mentor for newer pro bono attorneys. Mentoring is rewarding and flexible.

(4) Contact VLP Pro Bono Manager Nicole Patano at npatano@vlpnet.org to discuss the range of pro bono opportunities at VLP.

(5) You can provide financial support –any amount is greatly appreciated.

Yes! Many retired and inactive attorneys volunteer with VLP. We will work with you to complete the paperwork required for these pro bono statuses.

Retired attorneys whose only legal practice consists of pro bono work for organizations like VLP can assume Pro Bono Retired status at no cost with the Board of Bar Overseers.

Inactive attorneys who limit their practice to pro bono can assume Pro Bono Inactive Status for a reduced BBO registration fee.

Another option is to connect with Senior Partners for Justice.  Click here to read more.

No, you do not need your own malpractice insurance to volunteer at VLP. We provide primary malpractice insurance coverage for all VLP pro bono cases. Even if you have your own insurance, your VLP pro bono case will be covered by VLP’s malpractice insurance

No, you are not responsible for finding or paying for the interpreter on your case. VLP retains interpreters to assist in your communication with clients of limited English proficiency. Interpreters bill VLP directly. The attorney only needs to sign the interpreter’s time sheet to verify the interpreter’s time spent on the case.

As a volunteer, you are not responsible for filing or legal fees pertaining to your VLP case. Whenever possible, attorneys should file an Affidavit of Indigency for the client to get filing fees and court costs waived or paid for by the Commonwealth. VLP has limited funds to assist with litigation costs that are not otherwise covered. Please contact VLP to discuss your particular situation or needs.

Some routine costs are inherent in legal representation, e.g. copying, stationery, postage, etc. Panel attorneys may use the copier and postage meter in VLP’s office. VLP is unable to reimburse attorneys for mileage or parking.

• Bankruptcy
• Civil Appeals
• Consumer
• Employment
• Family Law
• Guardianship
• Housing Law
• Wills/Advanced Directives

Read about what areas of law VLP covers in more detail here.

Yes, we welcome law students. Learn More

No, we do not have a time commitment. Attorneys can volunteer as often as they are able.

Volunteer Lawyers Project offers several different types of opportunities and cases. Most of our volunteers spend time at our clinics, others take on full-rep cases, while others mentor or provide legal assistance virtually. Ask for more information about the many ways you can volunteer.

Ready? If you haven’t already done so, fill out the Join VLP form, then contact our Pro Bono Manager Nicole Patano at npatano@vlpnet.org. Nicole will make sure you are all set up and informed about available cases.

You may also want to check out our Calendar of Events to see if there are any upcoming trainings in the areas you’re interested in. The Calendar will also list our New Volunteer Orientation sessions which we hold every other month.