Local (DC Region) Pro Bono Service Organizations

THE ARCHDIOCESAN LEGAL NETWORK OF CATHOLIC CHARITIES (ALN)

• DATE & TIME: Variable, depending on your schedule.
• PLACE: Cases are tried at local D.C. and Maryland courts. Pro bono lawyers may use meeting space at the Archdiocesan Legal Network of Catholic Charities, 1221 Massachusetts Avenue, N.W.Washington, D.C. 20005.
• BAR MEMBERSHIP: Lawyers must be members of the Maryland Bar to take Maryland cases, I government attorneys do not need to be members of the D.C. Bar to take D.C. cases pursuant to Rule 49; non-lawyers who wish to aid the lawyers may volunteer under the supervision of a Bar member.
• NUMBER OF LAWYERS: Unlimited.
• MALPRACTICE INSURANCE: Provided through the Archdiocesan Legal Network.
• TRAINING/ORIENTATION/ASSISTANCE: ALN co-sponsors with the D.C. Bar periodic training seminars, such as the wills seminar held in the spring. The Pro Bono Program Manager will keep a schedule of upcoming training sessions. If a sufficient number of our attorneys are interested, L ALN could provide special training sessions in each subject area (ALN is very interested in providing I training session on custody and other family law matters since they particularly need volunteers in this area.) ALN provides mentor attorneys for assistance and consultation. Volunteers may use meeting space, telephones and limited secretarial assistance at the ALN office. In addition, ALN has a paralegal who can provide Spanish translation service. ALN also has reference materials available for volunteers.
• KINDS OF CASES: ALN provides services to low-income individuals on landlord-tenant matters, domestic relations issues, wills, conservatorships and guardianships, government benefits, employment issues and bankruptcy matters. Attorneys should contact ALN directly to express interest in a particular case.
• CONTACT: James Bishop, ALN Director (202-772-4324), email bishopJ@catholiccharitiesdc.org. See www.catholiccharitiesdc.org.

AYUDA Inc.

• DATE & TIME: Variable, depending on your schedule.
• PLACE: AYUDA's offices are located at 1736 Columbia Rd., NW, Washington, D.C. Domestic violence cases are heard at D.C. Superior Court.
• BAR MEMBERSHIP: Government attorneys who are not members of the D.C. bar may participate as long as they meet the requirements of the government employee section of Rule 49.
• NUMBER OF LAWYERS: Unlimited. Attorneys who speak Spanish or other foreign languages are preferred. Clients can be instructed to bring a translator if the volunteer attorney does not speak the client's language.
• MALPRACTICE INSURANCE: Provided through AYUDA.
• TRAINING/ORIENTATION/ASSISTANCE: AYUDA co-sponsors periodic trainings with the D.C. Bar on both domestic violence and immigration law. If a sufficient number of our attorneys are interested, AYUDA could provide special training sessions for us in domestic violence law. AYUDA provides mentor services, and staff attorneys are available for assistance and consultation. Staff attorneys have a number of frequently-used documents on disk, both in English and in Spanish, available for volunteer attorneys. Volunteers may use office space and telephones at AYUDA. AYUDA also has a library, which includes a number of training materials and other relevant resources.
• KINDS OF CASES: AYUDA represents foreign?born victims of domestic violence in domestic violence, domestic relations and immigration cases. AYUDA attorneys will also handle other cases that directly relate to violence against the victim to resolve any issues that impact her safety (i.e. small claims cases. Only domestic violence cases and related domestic relations cases will be referred to Federal Government attorneys. Because so many of AYUDA's clients speak Spanish or other foreign languages, volunteers with foreign language capabilities are strongly preferred. However, clients can be instructed to bring a translator with them if the attorney does not speak Spanish. Clients typically need assistance obtaining civil protection orders in D.C. Superior Court. Only clients who are documented and do not need immigration assistance will be referred. Interested attorneys should provide their contact information to AYUDA.
• CONTACT: Lori Humphreys, 202-387-0434, x20.

BREAD FOR THE CITY'S LEGAL CLINIC

• DATE & TIME: Variable, depending on your schedule.
• PLACE: Volunteers may use meeting space at the Legal Clinic's offices (1525 'h St., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20001? Green Line to Shaw/Howard Univ. Metro, exit on 81h & R Sts.). This also is the site of the monthly employment clinic and the advice and referral clinic co-sponsored by the D.C Bar.
• BAR MEMBERSHIP: Attorneys need not be members of the D.C. Bar. Paralegal help also is sought.
• MALPRACTICE INSURANCE: Provided through the Legal Clinic.
• TRAINING/ORIENTATION/ASSISTANCE: Formal training sessions co-sponsored by the D.C. Bar are provided regularly throughout the year. There also are occasional training sessions at area law firms. In addition, the Legal Clinic has training materials (experienced attorneys may not need to attend the formal training sessions), on-staff attorneys, and a network of mentors
• KINDS OF CASES: Bread for the City is a non?profit agency that provides food, clothing, social services, medical services and legal services to D.C. residents. The legal clinic provides advice and full representation to low-income clients. The legal clinic screens cases given to volunteers. Although government employees cannot take public benefits cases, immigration or bankruptcy cases, interested attorneys may take landlord/tenant, family (including guardian ad litem for custody matters) and consumer law cases. Case descriptions can be sent by e-mail or fax to volunteer attorneys. The Legal Clinic co-sponsors a free legal advice and referral clinic with the D.C. Bar on the second Saturday of each month. About 70% of the clients seeking free legal services only require brief advice and counsel. The clinic covers bankruptcy/debt collection, consumer, employment, family, health, housing, immigration, personal injury, probate, public benefits and tax issues. Visitors to the clinic will have an opportunity to meet with the volunteer attorneys to discuss their problems and to receive brief, general information or advice. Individuals with issues of likely conflict, such as public benefits, immigration or bankruptcy will be handled by a non-government clinic volunteer. The volunteers will not be assigned to represent the clinic visitors, but may refer them to a legal or social services agency to provide any needed additional information or service." The D.C. Employment Justice Center, which specializes in employment law matters, runs a Worker's Right Clinic. This clinic is held on the first and third Wednesday of each month from 6:00 p.m. to 8:OC p.m. Those interested in volunteering for this clinic should contact Kerry O'Brien at 202-659-9589.
• CONTACT: To volunteer, call Bread for the City's legal director, Elizabeth Campbell, at 202-265-2400, or email ecampbell@breadforthecity.org. See www.breadforthecity.org.

COVENANT HOUSE WASHINGTON DIVISION OF LEGAL SERVICES

• DATE & TIME: Variable, depending on your schedule. PLACE: 1015 15th Street, N.W., Lower Level, #2, or the CHW Community Service Center, 3400 Martin Luther King, Jr., Avenue, S.E.
• BAR MEMBERSHIP: Not required for the legal education or other activities that do not involve the practice of law. To take a case, lawyers must be members of the D.C. Bar or work under the supervision of a D.C. Bar member. Non-lawyers who wish to aid the lawyers with cases may volunteer under the supervision of a Bar member.
• NUMBER OF LAWYERS: Unlimited.
• MALPRACTICE INSURANCE: Provided through Covenant House Washington (CHW).
• TRAINING/ORIENTATION/ASSISTANCE: Training, office space, reference materials and other support are provided as needed through CHW.
• KINDS OF CASES: For more than twenty-five years, CHW has provided essential services, such as shelter, food, and counseling to homeless, runaway, abused and neglected children. CHW would welcome assistance with the weekly workshops it provides to youth regarding violence and crime, housing, custody, child care, public benefits, the legislative process, legal drafting, and other issues involving legal rights and responsibilities. CHW, together with the Archdiocesan Legal Network for Catholic Charities, also offers monthly free legal consultations to area youth in the areas of domestic relations, government benefits, labor/employment, bankruptcy/credit, wills/probate, and landlord/tenant matters. This clinic currently is done on an advice and referral basis; the clinic volunteer gives general advice and then refers the case to another volunteer attorney via the Archdiocesan Legal Network for any additional necessary work. In the future, CHW hopes that its volunteers will be in a position to handle the cases discussed during the clinic. When a youth has an issue that would involve an area of conflict for a government volunteer, such as a government benefit issue, he or she will be referred to a non?government volunteer.
• CONTACT: Evita Smedley, Director of Legal Services, (202) 610-9602 x602, email esmedley@chdc.org. or Benita Singletary, Coordinator of Volunteer Activities, (202) 610-9621, e mail: singletarybo@chdc.org. See: www.covenanthousedc.org.

THE ARC OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, INC. (THE ARC OF D.C.)

• DATE & TIME: Variable, depending on your schedule. Those who wish to serve as mentors are asked to work with their constituent 12-15 hours per month. This includes checking in by phone, meeting in person and/or going on outings.
• PLACE: The Arc of D.C. constituents are located throughout D.C. and Prince George's County, MD. The Arc of D.C. is located at 900 Vamum St., N.E., Washington, D.C. 20017.
• BAR MEMBERSHIP: Bar membership is not necessary for mentoring work. For legal work, non- D.C. Bar members may work under the supervision of a staff attorney or other D.C. Bar member.
• MALPRACTICE INSURANCE: Provided through The Arc of D.C.
• TRAINING/ORIENTATION/ASSISTANCE: All volunteers are given an orientation before working with the Arc ofD.C. constituents. Additional training is provided to the volunteers either one-on-one, or in groups, as appropriate.
• TYPES OF CASES: The Arc of D.C. is a private, non-profit corporation founded by parents of children with mental retardation. It is a membership organization that has served persons with mental retardation for more than four decades. As one of the 1,200 nationwide chapters, The Arc of D.C. serves as the primary advocate for an estimated 18,000 D.C. citizens who have mental retardation and provides direct services to nearly 1,000 clients annually. Its programs and services seek to enhance the quality of life for the individuals they serve by affording constituents the opportunity to live, work, learn and play alongside their neighbors and making them valued members of the community. The Arc of D.C. periodically needs volunteers to assist clients with legal issues such as landlord-tenant or consumer problems. Assistance with policy and legislative questions are also needed. Volunteers are also needed to serve as mentors to individuals with mental retardation. Such volunteers may be assigned to advise a constituent on a variety of issues with which he or she may need assistance (such as phone bill discrepancies or helping them to understand other documents), or simply to serve as a "big brother" or "big sister" companion. Volunteers increase the quality of these individuals' lives via what The Arc of D.C. Arc terms "community integration." Mentors do not have to be attorneys.
• CONTACT: Mary Lou Meccariello, Director of Program Services, 202-636-2950, and Lydia Williams, 202-832-6860. See www.dc-arc.org.

D.C. BAR PRO BONO PROGRAM ADVICE AND REFERRAL CLINIC

• DATE & TIME: The Clinic is held on the second Saturday of every month from 10:00 a.m. to noon. Volunteers should arrive at the Clinic by 9:30 for a brief orientation.
• PLACE: Bread for the City's Legal Clinic, 1525 7th Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. (Green line to Shaw/Howard University Metro, exit on 8th & R Streets) and at the Max Robinson Center in Anacostia, 2301 Martin Luther King, Jr. Avenue, S.E. (Green line to Anacostia and easily accessible by car).
• BAR MEMBERSHIP: Lawyers must be members in good standing of a state bar or of the D.C. Bar. Those who are not D.C. Bar members will work under the supervision of a D.C. Bar member (a volunteer D.C. Bar member or D.C. Bar Pro Bono Program attorney). Legal assistants also are welcome.
• NUMBER OF LAWYERS: Unlimited.
• MALPRACTICE INSURANCE: Provided through the D.C. Bar Pro Bono Program.
• TRAINING/ORIENTATION/ASSISTANCE: An orientation will precede the Clinic. D.C. Bar ProBono Program mentors who are expert in the areas covered by the Clinic will be available at clinics to assist volunteers. Reference manuals will also be provided.
• KINDS OF CASES: This is an excellent opportunity for attorneys and legal assistants to engage in an important, although very manageable, pro bono project. About 70% of those seeking free legal services only require brief advice and counsel. This free clinic will offer advice in civil legal matters governed by D.C. law in the areas of bankruptcy/debt collection, consumer, employment, family law, health law, housing law, immigration/asylum, personal injury, probate, public benefits and tax issues. Clients of the Clinic will have an opportunity to meet with the volunteer attorneys to discuss their problems and receive brief general information or advice. Individuals with issues of likely conflict to Federal Government attorneys, such as public benefits, will be handled by a non-government Clinic volunteer. (The individuals are initially screened for the types of issues they have. If in the course of discussion another issue comes up that might create a conflict, the individual would be sent to another volunteer.) The volunteer attorneys will not be assigned to represent the Clinic clients, but may refer them to a legal or social service agency to provide any needed additional information or service.
• CONTACT: Clinic Coordinators Dan Clark, 737?4700 x297, Mark Herzog, (202) 737?4700, x206, mherzog@dcbar.org. See www.dcbar.org.

D.C. BAR PRO BONO PROGRAM PRO BONO CLINIC NIGHT

• DATE: The D.C. Bar hosts a "clinic night" approximately three times per month at which pro bono attorneys are matched with clients needing legal assistance. DOJ staffs this clinic approximately every 10-11months.
• TIME: Interviews are scheduled for Wednesday evenings, either at 5:45 or 6:45.
• PLACE: D.C. Bar Conference Center, 1250 H Street, NW, Washington,
• D.C. BAR MEMBERSHIP: Any lawyer admitted to practice in the highest court of any state or the District of Columbia.
• NUMBER OF LAWYERS: Fifteen per session.
• MALPRACTICE INSURANCE: Provided through the D.C. Bar Pro Bono Program
• TRAINING/ORIENTATION/ASSISTANCE: A staff person from the D.C. Bar Pro Bono Program gives an in-house orientation to the volunteers a couple of days before the clinic. At that time, volunteers receive general information about the structure of the clinic and the support that Pro Bono Program provides, as well as their assigned case files. At "clinic night" attorneys meet with their L new clients and conduct an approximately one-hour interview to gather additional facts. Mentors I attend the clinic to assist volunteer attorneys with evaluating the merits of the cases and to discuss strategies. The mentors are available to advise volunteers on an ongoing basis.
• KINDS OF CASES: Volunteers handle domestic relations (involving custody), landlord-tenant issues, and perhaps personal injury defense. No public benefits cases are given to Federal Government attorneys. The facts of specific cases are available one week before clinic night. They can therefore be assigned to specific attorneys prior to the clinic to allow time for conflicts checks.
• CONTACT: Laura Klein, DOJ Pro Bono Program Manager, 202-353-7529. See www.dcbar.org.

D.C. BAR PRO BONO PROGRAM PRO-SE-PLUS DIVORCE CLINIC

• DATE & TIME: The Clinic is approximately 3 - 4 times per month. A schedule is attached.
• PLACE: The clinic is held at the D.C. Superior Court, 500 Indiana Ave., NW, Room 2500.
• BAR MEMBERSHIP: Not required.
• NUMBER OF LAWYERS: Unlimited.
• MALPRACTICE INSURANCE: Provided through the D.C. Bar Pro Bono Program.
• TRAINING/ASSISTANCE/ORIENTATION: All volunteers must go through training offered by the D.C. Bar Pro Bono Program. Experienced family law practitioners are part of each clinic workshop team. A resource manual and training materials are also available.
• KINDS OF CASES: Volunteers provide training and assistance to unrepresented litigants in divorce cases at a series of two workshops. "They answer questions and help pro se litigants to fill out forms. The volunteers do not represent the litigants, and the issues are limited to D.C. divorce law and procedure. The workshops cover filing requirements, identifying issues that may be contested, service of process, default proceedings, and how a hearing would proceed.
• CONTACT: Valarie Depres, (202) 737-4700.

EMPLOYMENT JUSTICE CENTER
 

• DATE & TIME: Variable, depending on your schedule. Clinics are held every Wednesday from 6:00-9:00 p.m.
• PLACE: Clinics occur at Bread for the City's Legal Clinic at 1525 7th St., N.W., Washington, D.C 20001. Take the Green Line to Shaw/Howard Univ. Metro, exit on 8th & R Streets. The Employment Justice Center's offices are located at 1350 Connecticut Ave NW, Suite 600.
• BAR MEMBERSHIP: Attorneys do not need to be members of the D.C. Bar in order to participate. Paralegal help also is sought.
• MALPRACTICE INSURANCE: Provided through the Employment Justice Center.
• TRAINING/ORIENTATION/ASSISTANCE: Formal training sessions co-sponsored by the D.C. Bar are provided once a year. There are also periodic training sessions at area law firms. In addition, the Employment Justice Center has training materials available for new volunteers (experience attorneys may not need to attend the formal training sessions) as well as an on-staff attorney and a network of mentors to provide support.
• KINDS OF CASES: The Employment Justice Center provides brief services, advice, referrals and full representation to low-income clients on employment law matters including unpaid wages, unemployment compensation, workers' compensation, family and medical leave act issues, sexual harassment, welfare to work issues, discrimination and disability accommodation. The project screens all cases given to its volunteers. Case descriptions can be sent by email to volunteer attorneys.
• CONTACT: To volunteer, call Kerry O'Brien or Judy Conti at (202) 828?9675 or e-mail to justice@dcejc.org. See: www.dcejc.org.

LAW FOUNDATION OF PRINCE GEORGE'S COUNTY, INC.

• DATE & TIME: Variable, depending on your schedule.
• PLACE: Probono lawyers may use meeting space at the Law Foundation's offices (5303 Baltimore Avenue (Rte. 1), Hyattsville, MD). Volunteers also may work at a number of Prince George's County shelters or soup kitchens (generally located in Hyattsville, Capitol Heights, Beaver Heights and Adelphi) during the evenings, at lunch time or on weekends.
• LAW MEMBERSHIP: Volunteers must be members of the Maryland Bar to volunteer with the Law Foundation's programs.
• MALPRACTICE INSURANCE: Provided through the Prince George's County Law Foundation.
• TRAINING/ORIENTATION/ASSISTANCE: Formal training sessions are provided once per year. However, videotapes of a training session and a manual are available for volunteers. In addition, the Law Foundation has a network of mentoring attorneys including a family law clinic operated by three leading family law attorneys in Prince George's County.
• KINDS OF CASES: The Law Foundation has several programs. The main program consists of representing individual clients in family law, landlord-tenant, tort defense, replevin, will and power of attorney preparation, and school suspension cases not involving drugs or weapons. The Law Foundation contacts its registered volunteers to place such cases. Other programs include representation in simple bankruptcy Chapter 7 matters, (sliding fee) reduced fee mediation, and a pilot program of reduced fee contested custody matters. Federal Government attorneys will not be referred bankruptcy cases. Another program involves volunteering during the evenings or on weekends at one of several shelters in the county. In the shelter program, attorneys would meet with clients who are homeless or in imminent danger of becoming homeless. While the majority of matters handled at the shelters can be addressed informally during the consultations at the shelters, volunteer attorneys are expected to do the necessary follow-up work. However, the Law Foundation will find other attorneys to do the follow-up work if the volunteer is unfamiliar with a particular area of law, lacks the time to handle the matter, or has a conflict of interest. The volunteer schedules for the shelters are arranged by the Law Foundation for six month periods. Volunteers usually work four to five times per year. Government attorneys may be paired with non-government attorneys to avoid possible conflicts of interest.
• CONTACT: To volunteer, call the Law Foundation's Program Director, Neal Conway, or Chief Attorney, Ellen Bigham, at 301-864-4907, email lawfopg@clark.net. See: www.mlsc.org.

LAWYERS FOR CHILDREN AMERICA (LFCA)
 

• DATE & TIME: Variable, depending on your schedule.
• PLACE: 2000 K Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. Cases are tried at D.C. Superior Court.
• BAR MEMBERSHIP: Attorneys do not need to be members of the D.C. bar. Non-lawyers may assist with case preparation and social work component of the project.
• NUMBER OF LAWYERS: Unlimited.
• MALPRACTICE INSURANCE: Will be provided through Lawyers for Children America (LFCA Attorneys should confirm coverage prior to taking a case assignment.
• TRAINING/ORIENTATION/ASSISTANCE: Volunteers are required to attend a one?day Initial Core Training. The required one-day training series is offered at least three times a year through LFC and once per year through the Counsel for Child Abuse and Neglect (CCAN) Office of the D.C. Superior Court. Follow-up training in various areas is offered throughout the year. Courtroom observations and tours are part of the training as well. LFCA provides seminar materials (including two-volume local child welfare practice manual) and case consultation and courtroom assistance, as needed.
• TYPES OF CASES: LFCA emphasizes a multi-disciplinary approach to the representation of abused and neglected children in civil actions brought in D.C. Superior Court. Pro bono lawyers receive intensive training on the laws and procedures governing child abuse and neglect court proceedings, as well as on child development and pertinent psycho-social issues affecting these children. These attorneys also learn about the various remedial and support services available in the community to assist both the children they represent and their families. Cases are assigned to a team of one or two attorneys, and a paralegal or administrative assistant. Once a case is assigned, LFCA provides consultation and support to the team to analyze the case, assess the client's needs, and identify appropriate social services for the child and family.
• CONTACT: Danielle Chappell, LFCA Program Director, (202) 419-2604, or Keely Magyar, LFC Program Director, (202) 419-2603.

LEGAL AID BUREAU OF MARYLAND (LAB)

• DATE & TIME: Variable, depending on your schedule. Typically, volunteers in the Metropolitan Maryland Office (serving Montgomery, Prince George's, and Howard Counties) work one or two days per week for six months to a year. We have also had volunteers work for the summer and for as long as four years. Intake is generally done by telephone, although walk?in clients are not turned away. The intake schedule at the Metropolitan Maryland office is: 1. Consumer/Bankruptcy: Monday and Fridays, 9:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. 2. Housing/Landlord and Tenant: Mondays and Fridays, 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. 3. General Intake (any non?domestic problem, such as public benefits, housing, consumer law); Tuesdays and Thursdays, 1:00103:00 p.m. 4. Domestic/Family Law: Wednesdays, 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. 5. Spanish Speaking Intake: Wednesdays, 9:00 a.m. to noon. 6. Elder Law (60 years old and older): Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9:00 a.m. to noon.
• PLACE: LAB has eleven offices throughout Maryland. Montgomery, Prince George's and Howard Counties are served in the Metropolitan Maryland office (6811 Kenilworth Avenue, Suite 500, Riverdale, MD 20737), as well as satellite offices in Silver Spring and Ellicot City. Other offices are located in Cumberland, Annapolis, Baltimore (our main office), Towson, Centreville, Frederick, Bel Air, Hughesville, and Salisbury, Maryland.
• BAR MEMBERSHIP: Volunteers must be members of the Maryland Bar to litigate cases, but need not be members of the Maryland Bar to assist in non-litigation matters.
• MALPRACTICE INSURANCE: Provided through the Legal Aid Bureau of Maryland.
• TRAINING/ORIENTATION/ASSISTANCE: Volunteers for this program are considered "members of the (LAB) Volunteer Staff." Because of federal funding requirements, LAB requests resumes from its volunteers and checks references. In-house training and mentoring are provided.
• KINDS OF CASES: LAB is a staffed legal services program offering free civil legal services to the low income population throughout Maryland. LAB accepts cases in the areas of family/ domestic law, public benefits, landlord?tenant, and consumer cases. LAB also provides specialized representation through grants or contracts to senior citizens, nursing home residents, migrant farmworkers and children alleged to be abused or neglected. Those calling LAB for assistance may receive: a referral to another agency that may be able to help, advice, assistance with court filings, or representation. Outreach is ' also conducted throughout Montgomery, Prince George's and Howard Counties. This includes informational presentations on legal issues, and interview sites.
• CONTACT: For more information or to volunteer in the Metropolitan Maryland Office, call the LAB Chief Attorney, Blake Fetrow, at 301-927-2101, ext. 3022. For information about other LAB offices, call the LAB Main Office at 1-800-999-8904. E-mail metropolitanmd@mdlab.org. See: www.mdlab.org.

THE LEGAL AID SOCIETY OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA (LAS)
 

• DATE & TIME: Variable, depending on your schedule.
• PLACE: Pro bono lawyers may use the conference room or offices at the Legal Aid Society, 666 11 Street, N.W., Suite 800, Washington, D.C. 20001.  Cases are tried at D.C. Superior Court.
• BAR MEMBERSHIP: Government attorneys do not need to be members of the D.C. Bar in order to participate. Non-lawyers who wish to aid the lawyers may volunteer under the supervision of a D.C. Bar member.
• NUMBER OF LAWYERS: Unlimited.
• MALPRACTICE INSURANCE: Provided through the Legal Aid Society.
• TRAINING/ORIENTATION/ASSISTANCE: LAS co-sponsors periodic framings with the D.C. Bar. If a sufficient number of our attorneys are interested, LAS could provide special training session for us in each subject area. LAS provides mentor services, and staff attorneys are available for assistance and consultation. Staff attorneys have a number of frequently used documents on disk available for volunteer attorneys. Volunteers may use office space at the LAS office. LAS also has a library, which includes a number of training materials and other relevant resources.
• KINDS OF CASES: LAS is the longest serving legal assistance program in D.C. LAS provides pro bono representation to the community's poorest individuals on family law, domestic violence, landlord tenant, public benefits and disability matters. Initial intake is done by LAS. Government benefits and disability cases will not be referred to Federal Government attorneys. Individual attorneys can contact LAS to get on the broadcast e-mail lists. Additional information regarding the Legal Aid Society is provided in the LAS annual report.
• CONTACT: Virginie Ladisch, Pro Bono Director, (202) 628-1161; probono@legalaiddc.org. See: www.legalaiddc.org.

LEGAL COUNSEL FOR THE ELDERLY (LCE)

•  DATE & TIME: Variable depending upon your schedule. PLACE: Pro bono lawyers may use the interview rooms at Legal Counsel for the Elderly, 601 E. Street NW, Washington D.C. or visit homebound clients at their homes.
• BAR MEMBERSHIP: Lawyers should be members of the D.C. Bar. Government attorneys who are members of other bars should contact LCE. Non-lawyers who wish to aid the lawyers may volunteer. NUMBER OF LAWYERS: Unlimited. MALPRACTICE INSURANCE: Provided through Legal Counsel for the Elderly.
• TRAINING/ORIENTATION/ASSISTANCE: Volunteer attorneys can use office space and secretarial assistance at the LCE office. Each year, LCE co?sponsors trainings with the D.C. Bar in the areas of landlord/tenant, wills and advance directives, social security disability and bankruptcy. If a sufficient number of our lawyers are interested, LCE could provide a special training session for us. Staff or volunteer lawyers are available for consultation.
• KINDS OF CASES: (1) Wills. Many of LCE's elderly clients need wills, powers of attorney for finances and for health care decisions, and living wills. Most clients have very limited estates, normally consisting of only the homestead and some personalty. The wills are normally simple and straightforward. Shirley Williams, Volunteer Lawyers Project Coordinator, is the contact person and "mentor" on wills. Forms for all the documents are available on disk. Initial intake is done by LCE in person or through the telephone hotline. Staff attorneys are always available for consultation and assistance. (2) General caseload. LCE handles landlord?tenant cases, guardianships, real estate, consumer law, collections, contracts, and public benefits cases. (The latter would be excluded from our program.) Individual attorneys can indicate their interest and get on the broadcast e-mail list.
• CONTACT: Shirley Williams, Volunteer Lawyers Project Coordinator, (202) 434?2120, e-mail SMWIlliams@aarp.org. See www.aarp.org.

LEGAL SERVICES OF NORTHERN VIRGINIA (LSNV)
 

• DATE & TIME: Variable, depending on your schedule.
• PLACE: LSNV's offices are located at 6400 Arlington Blvd., Falls Church, VA. Their Saturday Uncontested Divorce Clinic is held at their Fairfax office (4080 Chain Bridge Rd.).
• BAR MEMBERSHIP: Attorneys must be members of the Virginia Bar, unless taking a case involving a District employer. There are also opportunities for paralegals.
• MALPRACTICE INSURANCE: Provided through Legal Services of Northern Virginia.
• TRAINING/ORIENTATION/ASSISTANCE: Formal training sessions are provided at various times throughout the year. The Hotline training is held each spring. In addition, LSNV assigns mentors to its volunteer attorneys.
• KINDS OF CASES: LSNV serves Arlington, Fairfax, Loudoun and Prince William counties and the cities of Alexandria, Fairfax, Falls Church, Manassas, and Manassas Park. All intake is conducted by LSNV. Volunteers may provide direct representation to clients, co-counsel cases with LSNV staff attorneys, conduct legal research for LSNV staff and pro bono attorneys, mentor LSNV staff attorneys and probono attorneys, conduct trainings for pro bono attorneys, prepare community legal education materials and perform community outreach, conduct information sessions for clients, and/or provide administrative support to LSNV. LSNV's cases involve housing, family law, employment law, public benefits and bankruptcy cases. (Public benefits and bankruptcy cases will not be assigned to Federal Government volunteers.) LSNV/VBA Hotline: LSNV also has a "Hotline Program,"which is staffed by volunteer attorneys at the Falls Church office on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 1:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. In this program, pro bone attorneys provide advice and counsel by telephone to clients on issues involving family law, domestic violence and housing law. Volunteers are supervised by a mentor attorney from the LSNV. Housing, Consumer and Employment Law Projects: Volunteer attorneys meet with clients to conduct an initial interview, investigate the merits of the case, provide advice and counsel and, in appropriate situations, undertake representation. These projects often are co-sponsored by local bar associations which help provide training to the volunteers. Family Law Projects: Volunteer attorneys on the LSNV Family Law Panel accept custody, support and divorce cases for advice and counsel, as well as for representation in court proceedings. Experienced family law attorneys act as mentors. The Uncontested Divorce Clinic (held on the fourth Saturday of each month) utilizes paralegals and attorneys to provide legal services to individuals seeking uncontested divorces in Fairfax, Alexandria and Arlington. Domestic Violence Pro Bono Panel: Volunteer attorneys obtain protective orders for victims of domestic violence. In some instances, representation continues in related custody and support pennons. Attorneys who speak other languages are especially encouraged to participate on this panel. The Law Center for Children Project (TLC): TLC advocates for young people in the areas of health, child welfare, disabilities, education and custody. TLC's pro bono panel consists of volunteer attorneys and paralegals who provide assistance with community education and outreach, legal reseal and direct representation. Bankruptcy Pro Bono Panel: Volunteer attorneys conduct monthly informational sessions for client exploring the option of filing bankruptcy. LSNV staff attorneys then screen attendees for referrals to participating pro bono attorneys. (Check with your ethics advisor for possible conflicts of interest.)
• CONTACT: Karen Zeineddin, Pro Bono Coordinator (703-246-4521), or Eric Moe, Pro Bono Assistant (703-538-3954), email eric_mo@yifan.net. The main number is 703-534-434 See: www.legalaidhelp.org.

THE PRO BONO RESOURCE CENTER OF MARYLAND, INC.

• The Pro Bono Resource Center of Maryland, Inc. (PBRC) is the statewide coordinator of volunteer civil legal services. PBRC's mission is to promote equal access to justice in Maryland by coordinating and supporting volunteer civil legal services, providing resources and support for legal advocates for the poor, and promoting cooperation within the legal community. PBRC publishes the Guide to Legal Services in Maryland which describes legal organizations throughout the state that are geared primarily to assisting individuals with limited income who are seeking legal assistance. The Guide, which was updated in 2000, includes a topical and geographical index, but does not indicate whether the organization provides malpractice insurance for their volunteers.
• CONTACT:  For more information on a specific volunteer opportunity with any of the organizations listed in the Guide, or to order the most recent edition of the Guide, contact PBRC directly at (800) 492-1964 extension 257 or (410) 837-9379. Email pbrc@probonomd.org.

MONTGOMERY COUNTY BAR FOUNDATION PRO BONO PROGRAM

• DATE & TIME: Variable, depending on your schedule. Intake hours are Monday to Thursday from 9:00 a.m. to noon. Clients must call in advance for an initial screening.
• PLACE: The Bar Foundation's offices are located at 27 West Jefferson Street, Rockville, MD, 20850
• BAR MEMBERSHIP: Attorneys must be members of the Maryland Bar. Paralegal help is also needed.
• MALPRACTICE INSURANCE: Provided through fee Pro Bono Program.
• TRAINING/ORIENTATION/ASSISTANCE: Seminars are provided throughout the year. In the spring, the Bar Foundation will hold a two evening family law seminar. The seminar is free as long as the volunteer agrees to accept a probono case. Participants will be assigned mentors.
• KINDS OF CASES: The Bar Foundation refers low-income Montgomery County residents to volunteer attorneys. The Pro Bono Program handles the following types of cases: guardianship, custody (only if custody has not already been established), adoption, absolute divorce, bankruptcy (Chapter 7 only), debt collection (defense only), landlord/tenant, and some immigration cases. The Program does not handle criminal cases, traffic issues, appeals, modifications, child support, legal separations, limited divorces, employment issues, or social security disability issues. Volunteers are needed to take individual cases and/or to volunteer at one of its three advice and referral clinics in Montgomery County
• CONTACT: Maria M. Delgado, Office Administrator, email mdelgado849@earthlink.net or Debbie Craven, Clinic Coordinator, 301-424-2706, See: www.montbar.org.

THE MULTIDOOR DISPUTE RESOLUTION DIVISION OF THE D.C. SUPERIOR COURT

• DATE & TIME: Variable. Small Claims mediators must commit to mediate three mornings per month for one year. Family mediators must mediate two cases per month (one to three hours) for one year. Civil neutrals (used by the MDRD as an all-inclusive term for mediators, arbitrators or case evaluators) are requested to commit to six days per year or to accept approximately 20 cases.
• PLACE: D.C. Superior Court, 500 Indiana Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20001 (program offices, small claims and family mediation). Civil mediation sessions are held in the Multi-Door Mediation Center, 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Room 112, Washington, D.C.
• BAR MEMBERSHIP: Mediators in the Small Claims and Family Mediation programs may be non- lawyers. Civil mediators must be licensed to practice law in any jurisdiction in the U.S. Civil case evaluators must be members of the D.C. Bar, have at least five years of litigation experience in the are; of law in which they will evaluate cases, and have conducted at least three civil trials of more than four hours in length. Civil arbitrators must be members of the D.C. Bar who have been licensed to practice law in D.C. for at least five years and who have participated in at least three civil trials of more than for hours in length.
• NUMBER OF LAWYERS: Unlimited. The MDRD's selection process, however, is quite competitive.
• MALPRACTICE INSURANCE: Provided through the Multidoor Dispute Resolution Division.
• TRAINING/ORIENTATION/ASSISTANCE: There are typically three to four times as many applicants as the number of those selected and trained for this program. The selection/ orientation/candidate evaluation for the Small Claims and Family Mediation program includes a videotaped mock interview with an individual with a dispute, as well as an individual candidate interview. Neutrals for the Civil program are selected based on their experience. Training programs range from 60 hour courses for Family Mediation, 40 hour courses for Small Claims, and one-to-two day training sessions for Civil neutrals. Training schedule varies; those who file an application for the program will be notified when selection interviews are scheduled. Following initial training, volunteers are given individual attention through formal instruction, mentoring, one-on-one observation and coaching. Each volunteer is evaluated periodically.
• KINDS OF CASES: (1) Family Mediation. The Family Mediation Program provides mediation to people who have disputes regarding family matters, such as child support, custody, visitation, and other divorce issues. The program provides citizens with an alternate method of resolving family disputes with emphasis on the best interests of the child, empowerment of the parties and facilitating communication between the parties. (2) Small Claims. Small claims disputes typically involve consumer and service provider complaint with claims for monetary compensation of $5,000 or less. Small claims mediators also mediate certain types of collection matters with claims up to $25.000. (3) Civil ADR. The civil ADR program is governed by court order and covers a variety of civil L disputes. Approximately 90-120 days after the filing of a civil complaint in the D.C. Superior Court, y the judge conducts a scheduling conference, at which time the judge and parties decide which ADR technique is best. The ADR session typically is held following the close of discovery and the deadliNE for filing dispositive motions. Cases are assigned based on the case type and the neutral's legal expertise. Probate and tax assessments are included in this program; neutrals undergo additional training for eligibility to mediate these cases.
• APPLICATION PROCESS: Applications for the Small Claims and Family Mediation program are available from the Pro Bono Program Manager. Those who wish to apply for the Civil program should call Wallace Meissner of the Civil ADR Program at 202-879-1974 to provide a name and address. Civil program applications are sent out to candidates as the time for a training session draws near (probably next fall; no date has yet been set).
• CONTACT: Karen Leichtnam, (202) 879-1597. For training information email Wallace Meissnei the Civil ADR Training Manager at meissnerw@dcsc.gov. See www.dcbar.org (select "DC Superior Court" then select "Multi-Door Dispute Resolution").

STREET LAW

• DATE & TIME: Variable, depending on the program select
• PLACE: Street Law is affiliated with schools and legal education programs throughout the country and abroad. In the D.C. metropolitan area, the Parents and the Law (PAL) program takes place in D.C. and Prince George's county public schools. The Street Law at Georgetown Law School program takes place at D.C. senior high schools. The Save Our Streets Program (SOS) is taught in the D.C. Superior Courthouse (500 Indiana Ave., N.W.). Street Law also has programs in Montgomery and Prince George's Counties and Alexandria senior high schools (not in Arlington at present), as well as in other parts of the U.S.
• PROGRAMS: Street Law creates education programs about the law, democracy and human rights throughout the country and abroad. They have a long-standing affiliation with Georgetown University Law School. Parents and the Law (PAL): PAL helps at-risk teen and young parents to navigate a maze of legal issues related to parental rights and responsibilities. Volunteers can serve as resources to the people teaching PAL classes. Volunteer attorneys can share their expertise about laws and community resources to teach the teens the information they need to solve their own problems (Attorneys are asked to commit to three class periods; each class lasts from one to one and a half hours.) Non-lawyers may share expertise on other topics, such as nutrition or child?development, or volunteer as a teacher's aide in the classroom or work one?on?one with a teen parent. Street Law at Georgetown Law School: In this clinic, law students teach a two-semester elective course in practical law (criminal, torts, consumer, housing, family and individual rights law) in D.C. senior high schools. The highlight of the course is a city?wide mock trial tournament before D.C. Superior Court judges. Volunteer attorneys can do a class presentation on a substantive issue, help prepare a class for the mock trial competition, or take a class on a field trip to the Justice Department. Attorneys are also needed for scoring and judging the citywide mock trial competition each March. The time commitment is flexible and can be anywhere from one to five hours per week, depending on the level of involvement. Activities would take place during the school day and some weekends. To help with scoring or judging the mock trial competition, you would only have to commit to two evening; at the end of March for four to five hours each evening. Save Our Streets (SOS) and the D.C. Courts Program: This program is offered in D.C. for youths charged with weapons offenses, who are referred to the program by a D.C. Superior Court Order. The youths attend 12 ninety-minute interactive classes on Saturday mornings or afternoons. Each lesson is designed to examine laws and issues that impact the student and the community, discuss information on the community resources available; and provide opportunities for negotiation skills building. Volunteers serve as outside community resource persons to assist the SOS class instructor in an area where they have some applicable knowledge and experience to contribute. Knowledge dealing with juveniles, conflict resolution, or the juvenile court system are especially valuable. For attorneys interested in serving as community resource persons, there are a number of available lessons. Classes run throughout the year, so interested persons may assist at any time. There is no set time commitment for volunteer resource persons. Street Law Classes in Other High Schools: Attorneys can assist social studies teachers in high school who teach practical law elective courses. Lawyers are sought to teach about a relevant area of his or her expertise during classroom visits. In the D.C. area, opportunities are available in D.C., Montgomery, Prince George's and Alexandria public schools. There are programs throughout the nation and even abroad.
• CONTACTS: Street Law has a web site at www.streetlaw.org and e-mail address: clearinghouse@streetlaw.org.. For PAL, call Alexandra Ashbrook (202-293-0088, ext. 248). For Street Law at Georgetown Law School, call Professor Rick Roe (202-662-9615, email roe@law.georgetown.edu.) For SOS, call Deborah Foster (202-293-0088, ext. 223, email Dfoster@streetlaw.org). For other law related education programs in high schools, call Lee Arbetman (202-293-0088, ext. 230).

WASHINGTON LEGAL CLINIC FOR THE HOMELESS (WLCH)

• DATE & TIME: Variable, depending on your schedule. Volunteers may conduct intake once a month or once every two months and/or accept cases 'on a referral basis. Homeless shelter and soup kitchen intake sites are staffed in the evenings, early mornings and at lunchtime. Volunteers should first attend a training session.
• PLACE: WLCH sponsors ten intake sites in Washington, D.C. A short description of each of the sites, as well as intake time and closest metro stops, is attached.
• BAR MEMBERSHIP: Federal lawyers who are members of a bar in good standing may volunteer; non-lawyers who wish to aid the lawyers may volunteer under the supervision of a D.C. Bar member.
• MALPRACTICE INSURANCE: Provided through WLCH.
• TRAINING/ORIENTATION/ASSISTANCE: Genesis Fisher (202-872-1927) is the Coordinator of Volunteers. Training programs are available periodically. Call Genesis for information about the next session. If a sufficient number of our attorneys are interested, WLCH can provide a special training session for us. WLCH has an intake manual, an in-house library and many informational packets to assist volunteers with recurrent issues. In addition, a WLCH staff attorney is available for consultation. Volunteer attorneys may use office space, telephones and secretarial assistance at the WLCH office, 1800 Massachusetts Avenue, N.W., 6th Floor, Washington, D.C. 20036. While individual government attorneys are encouraged to volunteer as a team with a non-government attorney (WLCH reports that many of their volunteers find this to be a convenient and satisfying way to volunteer), WLCH will attempt to place government attorneys with an appropriate attorney for intake sessions.
  KINDS OF CASES: Clients are homeless, living in shelters or in imminent danger of becoming homeless. The majority of matters handled at the intake sites can be handled informally. Many of the clients simply need someone to sort out their problem, let them know their rights, provide advice, or make a phone call for them. Issues include landlord-tenant, credit employment and other civil matters. Public benefits cases will be referred to volunteer non-government attorneys. While most attorneys participate by staffing an intake site once a month or every other month, attorneys may be placed on a mailing list to learn of cases needing lawyers by calling Genesis Fisher at WLCH. As with all pro bono cases, volunteers must obtain the requisite authorization before doing pro bono work.
• CONTACT: Genesis Fisher, Coordinator of Volunteers, (202) 872-l927, washlch@erols.com. See: www.legalclinic.org.

WASHINGTON LEGAL CLINIC FOR THE HOMELESS, INC.

• Intake Sites --
  • CENTRAL UNION MISSION 1350 R Street, N.W. Washington, D.C. 20009 (202) 745-7118 Central Union Mission provides overnight shelter, dinner, breakfast, and supportive services to homeless men. They also provide transitional living for approximately 30 men. WLCH intake Wednesday noon -1:00 p.m. (U Street/Cardozo metro stop yellow/green line)
  • CHARLIE'S PLACE St. Margaret's Episcopal Church 1830 Connecticut Avenue, N.W. Washington, D.C. 20009 Charlie's Place (La Casa de Carlos) is a day program offering breakfast on Tuesdays and Fridays. A social worker and arts and language teachers provide social services and enrichment programs for .English and Spanish speakers. Charlie's Place serves as the Legal Clinic's Spanish-language intake site. Volunteers must be fluent in Spanish. WLCH intake The second Tuesday of each month, 7:50 a.m. - 8:50 a.m. (Dupont Circle metro stop red line)
  • CHURCH OF THE BRETHREN Brethren Nutrition Program 337 North Carolina Avenue, S.E. Washington, D.C. 20003 (202) 547-5924 The Brethren Nutrition Program is open Monday through Friday from 12:00 -1:30 p.m. They provide a hot meal to anyone in need, usually 250-350 people each day. Social services are available, including job counseling and health care one day per week. WLC intake- Wednesday 12:15-1:15 p.m. (Eastern Market metro stop - blue/orange line)
  • COMMUNITY FOR CREATIVE NON-VIOLENCE Men's Shelter 425 2nd Street, N.W. Washington, D.C. 20001 (202) 393?1909 CCNV-M provides 24-hour shelter for 1400 men. Clothing, medical care and social services are also available on site. WLCH intake Mondays and Wednesdays 7:00 -9:00 p.m. (Judiciary Square metro stop red line)
  • COMMUNITY FOR CREATIVE NON-VIOLENCE Women's Shelter 425 2nd Street, N.W. Washington, D.C. 20001 (202) 393-1909 CCNV-W provides 24-hour shelter for 130 women. Clothing, medical care, and social services are also provided. WLCH intake Mondays 7:00 -9:00 p.m. (Judiciary Square metro stop red line)
  • DINNER PROGRAM FOR HOMELESS WOMEN 945 G Street, N.W. (First Congregational Church) Washington, D.C. 20001 (202)737-9311 Dinner Program provides dinner, social services, job counseling, and health care to approximately 85 homeless women Sunday through Thursday. The program is open from 4:00-8:00 p.m. and dinner is served at 6:00 p.m. WLCH intake Tuesday 6:15-7:15 p.m. (Metro Center metro stop red line) MIRIAM'S KITCHEN 2401 Virginia Avenue, N.W. (Western Presbyterian Church) Washington, D.C. 20037 (202) 835-8383 Miriam's kitchen provides breakfast to approximately 300 people (mostly men) each morning Monday through Friday. A social worker is available when WLJ~HH does intake, and health services are provided one morning per week. WLCH intake?Wednesday 7:30-8:15 a.m. (Foggy Bottom/GWl) metro stop blue/orange line)
  • RACHAEL'S WOMEN'S DAY CENTER 1222 11 TH Street, N.W. Washington, D.C. 20005 (202) 682-1005 Rachael's is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m.? 4:00 p.m. They provide day shelter, lunch, crisis counseling, job counseling, drug counseling, and health screening to homeless women. WLCH intake ? Wednesdays 12:30-1:30 p.m. (Mt. Vernon Square/UDC metro stop yellow/green line)
  • SO OTHERS MIGHT EAT (SOME) 600 Street, N.W. Washington, D.C. 20001 (202) 797-8806 SOME provides 1100 meals each day to men and women. They also provide medical and dental services, counseling, and affordable housing to elderly and handicapped persons. WLCH intake Fridays 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. (Union Station metro stop red line)
  • VIRGINIA WILLIAMS FAMILY RESOURCE CENTER 25 M Street, S.W. Washington, D.C. 20001 (202) 797?8806 The Family Resource Center is open from 8:15 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. Monday through Friday. The Center serves as central intake for D.C. families seeking shelter. Staff includes substance abuse counselors, housing specialists and social workers. WLCH intake ? Wednesdays 12:30 ? 1:30 p.m. (Navy Yard metro stop green line)

WOMEN EMPOWERED AGAINST VIOLENCE, Inc.(WEAVE)

• DATE & TIME: Variable, depending on your schedule. PLACE: 1111 16* Street, N.W., Suite 410, Washington, D.C. 20036. Cases are tried at D.C. Superior Court.
• BAR MEMBERSHIP: Government attorneys who are not members of the D.C. Bar may participate as long as they meet the requirements of the government employee section of Rule 49.
• NUMBER OF LAWYERS: Unlimited.
• MALPRACTICE INSURANCE: Provided through WEAVE.
• TRAINING/ORIENTATION/ASSISTANCE: WEAVE sponsors quarterly training sessions either at WEAVE or area law firms. WEAVE provides mentor services, and staff attorneys are available for assistance and consultation. Staff attorneys have a number of frequently?used documents on disk available for volunteer attorneys. WEAVE also has a library, which includes a number of training materials and other relevant resources.
• KINDS OF CASES: WEAVE provides comprehensive legal services to domestic violence survivors in the District of Columbia. WEAVE handles cases in numerous substantive areas, including civil protection orders, divorce, custody, child support, dissolution of joint debt, and immigration issues. Pro bono attorneys are needed to handle civil protection order cases and related matters that impact victims' safety. Clients with immigration issues will not be referred to Federal Government volunteers.
• CONTACT: Jennifer Podkul, Legal Coordinator (202) 452-9550 ext.l03. Jennifer@weaveincorp.org See: www.weaveincorp.org.

THE WHITMAN-WALKER CLINIC (WWC)

• DATE & TIME: Legal clinics are held every Monday night, except for holidays, from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m..
• PLACE: Intake and legal clinics are conducted at WWC's main facility at 1701 14th Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20009. Virginia licensed attorneys may volunteer at the Northern Virginia office 5232 Lee Highway, Arlington, VA 22207.
• BAR MEMBERSHIP: Federal government attorneys admitted to practice and in good standing before the bar of another state may participate in the clinic's program. The clinic has a particular need for lawyers who are licensed to practice in Virginia.
• NUMBER OF LAWYERS: Unlimited.
• MALPRACTICE INSURANCE: Provided through the Whitman-Walker Clinic.
• TRAINING/ORIENTATION/ASSISTANCE: WWC sponsors a day-long AIDS Advocacy training with the D.C. bar every year in late January. The training is videotaped for those who cannot attend. In addition, WWC offers "mini trainings" throughout the year on substantive legal issues covered at the legal clinics. In addition, WWC provides all volunteers with a 600?page practice manual, updated annually and covering relevant federal and local laws. WWC has an extensive network of expert mentors, as well as staff attorneys, to guide pro bono attorneys. Volunteer attorneys may use office space at the WWC offices.
• KINDS OF CASES: The Whitman-Walker Clinic provides free legal services to people living with HJV/AIDS in the D.C. metropolitan area on matters related to their health status. They serve nearly 1,900 clients each year, providing assistance on discrimination, insurance, debt, child custody, public benefits, estate planning, immigration and confidentiality matters. Volunteer attorneys meet with client; at weekly legal clinics conducted at WWC offices. Federal Government attorneys may take cases in any areas that do not pose a job-related conflict of interest.
• CONTACT: Jodi Feidman, Pro Bono Coordinator, Whitman-Walker Clinic, (202) 939-7664, email jfeldman@wwc.org. See: www.wwc.org.