WASHINGTON COUNCIL OF LAWYERS

Pro bono volunteers often step into moments of profound human crisis—supporting asylum seekers fleeing violence, advocating for survivors of abuse, and assisting families facing destabilizing life events. These matters frequently involve trauma, and volunteers are often navigating unfamiliar legal terrain at the same time. When attorneys are not experts in the practice area or the trauma their clients have endured, it can be difficult to recognize triggers, respond appropriately, or understand how to set boundaries that protect both client well‑being and volunteer sustainability. At the same time, volunteers bring their own lived experiences to this work. For some, the trauma embedded in pro bono cases may resonate deeply or unexpectedly, creating emotional strain that is not necessarily acknowledged openly. Many volunteers also struggle to identify or address vicarious trauma—especially when they are balancing demanding day jobs, personal stressors, and the broader pressures of the world around them. Organizations and firms face parallel challenges: When and how should they check in with volunteers? What structures, practices, or tools can meaningfully support pro bono attorneys who are straddling two professional environments? How can we build systems that normalize conversations about vicarious trauma and equip volunteers and coordinators with strategies to manage it? This panel will explore these questions from both the legal services and law firm perspectives. We will discuss practical approaches for preparing volunteers to engage in trauma-informed advocacy, supporting them while they are engaged in it, and ensuring they have resources and community after trauma-intensive work. We will also examine opportunities for developing or strengthening organizational practices that help volunteers recognize, navigate, and mitigate vicarious trauma. Join us for a candid conversation about how to support the emotional and professional well‑being of pro bono volunteers and walk away with actionable tools to put into practice for long-term volunteer sustainability. Our panel will be moderated by Jen Masi, Pro Bono Director, Children’s Law Center, in conversation with: Rena E. Cutlip-Mason, Pro Bono Immigration Attorney, Akin Tracy Davis, Managing Attorney, Bread for the City Niki L. Irish, LICSW, Outreach and Education Coordinator, Lawyer Assistance Program, District of Columbia Bar Ingrid Rosales Zavala, Deputy Director, Psychosocial Training & Technical Assistance, KIND We welcome pro bono coordinators from law firms, corporations, legal services providers, nonprofits, government agencies, and anyone who staffs pro bono projects.

This event is hosted by DC Superior Court and Washington Council of Lawyers, and co-sponsored by the Children’s Law Center and the D.C. Bar Pro Bono Center. Join us for a DC Superior Court Pro Bono Open House! Jen Masi from the Children’s Law Center and Jenadee Nanini from the D.C. Bar Pro Bono Center will introduce you to the Domestic Relations Branch – one of the Court’s high-volume branches where pro bono representation is greatly needed in child custody cases. The Open House will focus on representing parents and third-party caregivers in child custody cases, as well serving as a guardian ad litem (GAL) representing the best interests of the children involved. Register today to learn more about how you can help a family with limited means achieve stability and enhance your professional skills through pro bono representation. Please note this event involves a moderate amount of standing and walking. The meet up location is on the 1st floor just past security on the right. If attendees have accommodation needs or questions, please contact Jodi Feldman at Jodi.Feldman@dccsystem.gov.

This event is hosted by DC Superior Court and Washington Council of Lawyers, and co-sponsored by Volunteer Legal Advocates. Join us for a DC Superior Court Pro Bono Open House!  Alissa Osberg from Volunteer Legal Advocates will introduce you to the Domestic Violence Division – one of the Court’s high-volume branches where pro bono representation is greatly needed. The Open House will focus on representing petitioners in securing Civil Protection Orders (CPOs) against someone who has committed or threatened to commit domestic and/or sexual violence against them.  You’ll observe court proceedings, meet with judges, and find out how to get involved. Register today to learn more about how you can help someone seeking protection from violence and enhance your professional skills through pro bono representation. Please note this event involves a moderate amount of standing and walking. The meet up location for the tour is the 1st floor just past security on the right. If attendees have accommodation needs or questions, please contact Jodi Feldman at Jodi.Feldman@dccsystem.gov.

Come join IABA DC and the and Washington Council of Lawyers for a Happy Hour at KooKoo's Restaurant on May 7 at 6pm.

Post-graduate fellowships are a unique way to realize your ideal public interest job. Fellowships allow new lawyers to gain hands-on experience, develop project management skills, and pursue their passions for promoting justice. But the application process is complicated and the programs are competitive. We’re here to help you make sense of the process. Our expert panel will walk you through all the steps of the application procedures for the various programs and give you concrete tips for maximizing your chances of landing the fellowship of your dreams. Then, we will discuss PSJD and other online resources for finding fellowships. Finally, there will be plenty of time for individualized questions. Our conversation will be moderated by Jennie Netburn, Associate Director, Office of Public Interest and Community Service, Georgetown University Law Center Our panelists include: Charlie Gillig, Executive Director, Skadden Foundation Lauren Hartley, Associate Director of Network Engagement, Equal Justice Works Renée Schomp, Deputy Direct, Justice Catalyst Andrew Boyle, Counsel, States United Democracy Center This event is for law students at every stage of their career as well as judicial clerks and LLM students. For 3L students we will discuss the current fellowship application cycle. For 1L and 2L students, we will discuss the best ways to position yourself to receive a post graduate fellowship. We will also discuss law clerks and LLM students’ eligibility for fellowship positions. Join the conversation on social media #Fellowships101.

Trying to find a way to fit pro bono service into your schedule? Join us for a rewarding day of service, where your skills can make a significant difference in the lives of those seeking legal guidance and support! Volunteer on Saturday,  May 30th to gain experience in serving the D.C. community in a variety of matters! At the clinic, you’ll provide brief advice (and referrals) to people who otherwise wouldn’t have access to legal help. We meet at DC Bar Building (901 4th St NW). Please arrive at 9:00 am, a brief orientation takes place at 9:15 am, and volunteers are asked to stay until the last client is seen, usually at least 3:00 pm. There’s no time commitment beyond the clinic itself. As a volunteer attorney, you’ll answer questions about consumer law, family law, housing law, public benefits, bankruptcy, and other topics. You don’t need to be an expert in these areas of law: D.C. Bar Pro Bono Center staff and expert mentors will be on hand to help. You do need to be a member of the D.C. Bar, or a federal government attorney barred in another state to participate. The deadline to volunteer is Tuesday, May 26 by 5:00 pm ET. Once you register to attend, our Program Director and volunteer coordinator, Chris Marin, will be in touch with additional details. We are currently looking for volunteers in private practice, including solo practitioners and those at firms. If you are currently a law student and would like to volunteer please contact Rachel Lawrence at lawrencera@cua.edu. Thank you!

This event is hosted by DC Superior Court and Washington Council of Lawyers, and co-sponsored by the Children’s Law Center and the D.C. Bar Pro Bono Center. Join us for a DC Superior Court Pro Bono Open House! Jen Masi from the Children’s Law Center and Jenadee Nanini from the D.C. Bar Pro Bono Center will introduce you to the Domestic Relations Branch – one of the Court’s high-volume branches where pro bono representation is greatly needed in child custody cases. You’ll observe court proceedings, meet with judges, and find out how to get involved. Pro bono counsel may represent a parent, a third-party caregiver, or serve as a guardian ad litem (GAL) representing the best interests of the children involved in a custody case. Register today to learn more about how you can help a family with limited means achieve stability and enhance your professional skills through pro bono representation. Please note this event involves a moderate amount of standing and walking. If attendees have accommodation needs or questions, please contact Jodi Feldman at Jodi.Feldman@dccsystem.gov.

This event is hosted by DC Superior Court and Washington Council of Lawyers, and co-sponsored by Volunteer Legal Advocates. Join us for a DC Superior Court Pro Bono Open House!  Aída Vindell from Volunteer Legal Advocates will introduce you to the Domestic Violence Division – one of the Court’s high-volume branches where pro bono representation is greatly needed.  The Open House will focus on representing petitioners in securing Civil Protection Orders (CPOs) against someone who has committed or threatened to commit domestic and/or sexual violence against them.  You’ll observe court proceedings, meet with judges, and find out how to get involved. Register today to learn more about how you can help someone seeking protection from violence and enhance your professional skills through pro bono representation. Please note this event involves a moderate amount of standing and walking. If attendees have accommodation needs or questions, please contact Jodi Feldman at Jodi.Feldman@dccsystem.gov.

From complex procedural requirements, imposing briefing deadlines, and the many strategic considerations required for effective appellate argument, navigating the appeals process can be daunting. That's why it's important to fortify your appellate toolkit! Join us to learn what the appeals process entails, pitfalls to avoid, how to write more effective briefs, and musts for preparing oral arguments. This course will cover the building blocks of making the record for appeal, relevant appellate rules, and tips on effective brief writing and oral argument prep. You will leave with a deeper understanding of the appellate process and strategies that you can use in your own practice. Our faculty for this training is: Sasha Drobnick, Director of Appellate Litigation, DV LEAP, a project of Volare (formerly Network for Victim Recovery of D.C.). Register now to stride confidently into your next appeals! Scholarships are available due to the generosity of the D.C. Bar Foundation. To apply for a scholarship, please complete this online scholarship form.

Knowing how to impeach a witness can be a pivotal skill, influencing case outcomes and elevating your trial advocacy. This training features a blend of expert-led presentations, hands-on demonstrations, and dynamic workshops, enabling participants to explore the finer points of impeachment techniques. Experienced trial attorneys will share insights, best practices, and real-life examples, guiding you on how to: Identifying opportunities for impeachment Utilizing prior inconsistent statements, bias, and credibility challenges Cross-examination tactics to discredit witnesses Admissibility of impeachment evidence Effective use of exhibits and demonstrative aids This training takes place on Thursday, February 26 from 12:00 pm to 2:30 pm at Arnold & Porter (601 Massachusetts Ave NW). We will provide the drinks, cookies, and answers! You come with your lunch and questions! Scholarships are available due to the generosity of the D.C. Bar Foundation. To apply for a scholarship, please complete this online scholarship form. The following CLE credit is available for attendees of this training: CA 2.5 general, NJ 2.9 general, and NY 2.5 skills (newly admitted and experienced). We are also looking for facilitators for this training! If you are or know an attorney with 4+ years of experience that would like to give back by supporting this training, please sign up here.

Take a break from the grind and join us for a yoga class designed especially for our members. This all-levels session offers a chance to stretch, breathe, and reset—no prior yoga experience required. Balancing the demands of public service can take a toll on both body and mind. This class creates space to step away from our daily pressures and into a supportive, judgment-free environment focused on movement, mindfulness, and stress relief. Expect gentle flows, accessible poses, and grounding breathwork, with options to meet you where you are. Please bring your own mat, a standard yoga mat or beach towel works great! Come as you are, leave a little more centered—and ready to return to your work for justice with renewed energy. Motion to relax granted. Attendance is free for members. Bring a friend (separate registration is required). Space is limited, register today to reserve your spot!

Trying to find a way to fit pro bono service into your schedule? Join us for a rewarding day of service, where your skills can make a significant difference in the lives of those seeking legal guidance and support! Volunteer on Saturday,  February 7th to gain experience in serving the D.C. community in a variety of matters! At the clinic, you’ll provide brief advice (and referrals) to people who otherwise wouldn’t have access to legal help. We meet at DC Bar Building (901 4th St NW). Please arrive at 9:00 am, a brief orientation takes place at 9:15 am, and volunteers are asked to stay until the last client is seen, usually at least 3:00 pm. There’s no time commitment beyond the clinic itself. As a volunteer attorney, you’ll answer questions about consumer law, family law, housing law, public benefits, bankruptcy, and other topics. You don’t need to be an expert in these areas of law: D.C. Bar Pro Bono Center staff and expert mentors will be on hand to help. You do need to be a member of the D.C. Bar, or a federal government attorney barred in another state to participate. The deadline to volunteer is Thursday, January 29 by 5:00 pm ET. Once you register to attend, our Program Director and volunteer coordinator, Chris Marin, will be in touch with additional details. We are currently looking for volunteers in private practice, including solo practitioners and those at firms. If you are currently a law student and would like to volunteer please contact Rachel Lawrence at lawrencera@cua.edu. Thank you!

If you represent a client pro bono in DC Superior Court, particularly in a family law or domestic violence case, there’s a high likelihood that you’ll be litigating against a self-represented party. In cases where one side is represented by counsel and the other side is self-represented, the dynamic necessarily impacts the judge’s perspective from the bench. Join this candid conversation with Superior Court judges about what considerations come into play when litigating against self-represented parties. Judge Carmen G. McLean will moderate the discussion with: Judge Marisa Demeo Judge Ebony Scott Judge Sherry Trafford The judges will share their perspectives on topics ranging from discovery and related sanctions to the preference for making decisions on the merits, as well as their ethical responsibility to facilitate all parties being fairly heard in a proceeding. We look forward to you joining us! If you have questions for our panel, you can submit them ahead of time when you register!

Meeting the growing need for civil legal services requires creative strategies to engage every available resource—including law students. These enthusiastic volunteers bring energy and a desire for practical experience, but programs must balance student expectations with client needs and professional ethics. How can legal services, firms, government agencies, and the bar collaborate to attract students early, provide meaningful opportunities, and cultivate a strong pro bono pipeline? Our panel includes: Lise Adams, Pro Bono Counsel, Sidley Austin LLP Adrianne Clarke, Director of Externships and Public Interest Programming, Howard University School of Law Brooke Meckler, Community Engagement Director, Equal Justice Works Brandon Riches, Young Lawyers Division Chair, American Bar Association' Taylor Stamps, Law Student Division Chair, American Bar Association and will be joined by Jen Masi, Pro Bono Director at Children's Law Center, moderating! Join us for a candid discussion on best practices for integrating law students into pro bono work, managing their involvement effectively, and inspiring the next generation of pro bono champions.

Our adversarial legal system is based on arguing the facts - so it's vital to your case to get your facts straight! Join us for an engaging and practical educational training designed to strengthen your understanding of pre-trial discovery. Whether you are new to litigation or looking to refresh your skills, this session will provide a clear, structured overview of the discovery process and the strategies that can set your case up for success. Through a presentation and practice, we will examine the purpose of discovery, the tools available to practitioners, and considerations for developing an efficient, ethical, and effective discovery plan. Participants will gain insight into how discovery shapes case theory, supports negotiation, and influences case outcomes. Learning Goals: Understand the core objectives and functions of pre-trial discovery. Become familiar with the main discovery tools, including interrogatories, document requests, depositions, requests for admission, and subpoenas. Learn how to craft a strategic discovery plan aligned with case goals and client needs. Identify common challenges that arise during discovery and approaches for addressing them. Improve confidence in managing discovery timelines, obligations, and communication with opposing counsel! This training will benefit attorneys, advocates, and legal professionals seeking a stronger foundation in discovery or a more organized approach to pre-trial practice. All experience levels are welcome. Scholarships are available thanks to the generosity of the D.C. Bar Foundation. If your organization is a DC Bar Foundation grantee, please apply for a scholarship by completing this online scholarship form.