Volunteer Opportunites
Volunteer Opportunities for Attorneys
VLP provides a number of ways for attorneys to get involved in helping low-income people handle their legal problems. We provide training, mentoring, legal support and recognition to our attorney volunteers. Attorneys providing pro bono representation through VLP are covered by our malpractice insurance and can request reimbursement of case expenses not covered by clients from our litigation fund.
Interested in or questions about volunteering? Contact us via e-mail or phone or fill out our Attorney Enrollment Form.
View our Private Attorney Involvement Plan
Pro Bono Representation - Attorneys around Maine provide legal consultation, limited and full representation for eligible VLP clients in their area on a pro bono basis. Most referrals are made by volunteer Lawyers of the Day calling from VLP’s Portland and Bangor offices. Attorneys may also arrange for direct referrals or can contact VLP directly to request a case. VLP refers cases for pro bono representation in a wide range of legal areas including:
- Family Law
- Bankruptcy
- Tax Law
- SSI
- Contracts and Warranties
- Employment and Licensing
- Unemployment Compensation
- Foreclosure and Housing
- Real Estate
- Tort Defense
Lawyer of the Day - Volunteer attorneys serve three hour shifts in VLP's Portland and Bangor offices, calling their colleagues around Maine to place VLP cases selected for pro bono referral. Lawyers of the Day typically volunteer for one or two shifts each year.
CHAP (Courthouse Assistance Project)- Volunteer lawyers staff the CHAP in Augusta, Biddeford, Lewiston and Portland District Court, providing individual advice and assistance to walk-in self-represented litigants on family law matters. Volunteers help clients fill out paperwork, write or respond to motions or interrogatories, plan their legal strategy and understand the court process.
Family Law Helpline - Volunteer lawyers and law students staff a Wednesday evening and Friday afternoon Helpline to provide individual advice and assistance to self-represented litigants in family law matters via telephone appointments. Volunteers help clients fill out paperwork, write or respond to motions or interrogatories, plan their legal strategy and understand the court process.
Domestic Violence Pro Bono Panel - Attorneys provide in-court limited representation to victims of domestic violence seeking final protection orders.
Penobscot County Clinic-Volunteer lawyers staff a Bangor Clinic to provide individual advice and assistance to self-represented litigants on a variety of matters. Volunteers help clients fill out paperwork, write or respond to motions or interrogatories, plan their legal strategy and understand the court process.
Native American CHAP-Volunteer lawyers provide individual advice and assistance to self-represented litigants in family law matters. Volunteers help clients fill out paperwork, write or respond to motions or interrogatories, plan their legal strategy and understand the court process.
Other Opportunities - Attorney volunteers are needed to assist VLP in a number of other areas including:
- Mentoring pro bono attorneys
- Legal research and writing
- Developing client education materials
- Presenting CLE's and client legal workshops
- Outreach and publicity within the Maine Bar
- Consultation on legal changes and service delivery
Attorneys are also welcome to volunteer for a range of non-legal opportunities.
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