Government Pro Bono Roundtable (2025)

Our Government Pro Bono Roundtable is the perfect opportunity to learn about doing pro bono work as a government lawyer. Pro bono work can be a rewarding part of a government career; you just need to be familiar with the resources, policies, and strategies that allow you to do the work effectively. At this lively discussion, you'll learn about established pro bono programs for government lawyers, in both the local and federal government spheres. Our pro bono experts will share why pro bono work is meaningful to them, tips for managing your schedule and finding the support you need, and info about the many different types of pro bono work available to government lawyers The government lawyer panelists will share their experiences from their personal perspectives in their individual capacities, and will not be speaking on behalf of their agencies. Join us to find out how you can dive into pro bono work as a government lawyer!

Racial Justice Series: Fireside Chat – Dismantling Mass Incarceration A Handbook for Change

Building a future together requires a vision of what is possible, perseverance, and hope. We find all this and more in the pages of Dismantling Mass Incarceration: A Handbook for Change from Premal Dharia, James Forman Jr., and Maria Hawilo. Join us for a fireside chat with Premal Dharia, author and Executive Director of the Institute to End Mass Incarceration at Harvard Law School. We will continue what the book starts, creating a forum to discuss - and disagree - on the best ways to confront the harms of mass incarceration. The conversation will highlight some of the many stories included from activists, lawyers, judges, scholars, people who were formerly incarcerated, and more that help to create understanding around such a large and nuanced topic. If you feel passionately about prison reform and are unsure of what to do next, this conversation is your next step! Join us whether you've read the book already or have it on your TBR! The conversation will expand your understanding of the topic beyond what you'll find in the book! You can be a part of the conversation on social media using #RJSHandbooktoChange

Litigation Skills Series: Drafting Client Declarations

In this skills-based training, you will obtain the skills necessary to draft effective declarations. We will provide you with the tools and tips you need to understand: how and when to use a declaration to tell your client’s story. how to assist clients with language access needs and those experiencing trauma. Additionally, we will cover a range of advocacy and style considerations when drafting a persuasive declaration.  We will draw on examples from immigration, family law, and housing cases, but the skills and information will be applicable to other legal services practices. During this session, you will have a chance to draft a declaration, collaborate with peers, and receive feedback in order to build your skillset. Our conversation will be led by: Andrea Mangones, Managing Attorney, Kids in Need of Defense (KIND) Jenadee Nanini, Family Law Staff Attorney, D.C. Bar Pro Bono Center Scholarships are available due to the generosity of the D.C. Bar Foundation. To apply for a scholarship, please complete this online scholarship form.

Litigation Skills Series: Impeachment

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 Our faculty for this training are trial experts Greg Lipper, Lipper Law PLLC, and Gwen Washington, Pro Bono Attorney at Cleary Gottlieb. This training takes place on Wednesday, February 12 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. CLE credit is pending for this training.

Litigation Skills Series: Objections

Knowing when and how to object is critical not only to winning at trial, but also to making sure that issues are preserved for appeal. Our next installment of our Litigation Skills Training will focus on the skills and tactics of an effective objection. Litigation Skills Series: Objections will be led by Daria Zane (Adjunct Professor at George Mason University Antonin Scalia Law School; former Magistrate Judge at the Court of Federal Claims) and Sharon Goodie (Judge, DC Office of Administrative Hearings; former prosecutor, DC Attorney General's office). This award-winning training offers both demonstrations and a Jeopardy-style game so that you can learn the rules and how to apply them. Scholarships are available due to the generosity of the D.C. Bar Foundation. Please fill out this online scholarship form. Bring your lunch and get ready to object!

Volunteer! DC Bar Pro Bono Center Advice & Referral Clinic (November 2024)

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, November 16th 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 Office, 901 4th St NW, Washington, DC 20001. Street parking is available. 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, November 12 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 in a government position and would like to volunteer please contact Lara Eilhardt at Lara.Eilhardt@usdoj.gov. If you are currently a law student and would like to volunteer please contact Rachel Lawrence at lawrencera@cua.edu. Thank you!

Volunteer! DC Bar Pro Bono Center: Small Business Brief Advice Clinic

The DC Bar Pro Bono Center is sponsoring a walk-in legal clinic for community-based entrepreneurs with general legal questions about their aspiring and existing small businesses. This is a brief advice clinic. Volunteers are not expected to provide ongoing representation. Malpractice insurance is provided. Many of the clients are already receiving technical assistance from local small business technical assistance providers. The following are examples of questions that might arise at the clinic: How do I transition from operating as a sole proprietorship to a corporate or non-corporate business entity? What is the difference between an employee and independent contractor? How do I negotiate reasonable lease terms? To those of you who are new to volunteering at the Small Business Clinics, you'll have an opportunity to work in tandem with veteran volunteers. This is an in-person volunteer opportunity that is best suited for attorneys, law students, and intake volunteers. If you have any questions, please contact Christine Lopez Kulumani at ckulumani@dcbar.org.

Celebrating In-House Pro Bono Impact

Join us for an inspiring and insightful webinar dedicated to celebrating the transformative power of in-house pro bono work.  This engaging session will highlight the vital contributions in-house legal teams make to their communities through a diverse array of pro bono initiatives, including bite-size and long-term opportunities.  The program will showcase how corporate legal departments can support and encourage employees to do pro bono, and inspire new volunteers to participate.  Whether you're new to pro bono work or a seasoned advocate, you will learn from our panelists’ pro bono experiences and practical advice. Panelists: Bill Hayden, Chief Compliance Counsel (Microsoft Federal) & Asst. General Counsel, Microsoft Avery Pollard, Counsel, Verizon Business Group Alyssa Saunders, Director, Corporate Pro Bono, Pro Bono Institute Kathi S. Westcott, Deputy General Counsel and Senior Director, Legal Affairs, The Pew Charitable Trusts Join the conversation on Social Media using #DCProBono24

A Celebration of the Vulnerable Youth Guardianship Protection Amendment Act

Join us for an insightful panel discussion to celebrate the Vulnerable Youth Guardianship Protection Amendment Act and its impact. This event will feature a panel of dedicated legal professionals, including pro bono attorneys who have firsthand experience working on VYG cases, as well as additional experts in the field.  The discussion will explore the significance of the Act, the legal challenges surrounding vulnerable youth guardianship, and the ongoing efforts to protect the rights of at-risk youth. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from those at the forefront of legal advocacy and pro bono work, and to engage in a meaningful conversation about the future of guardianship protection. Join the conversation on social media using #DCProBono24!

Perspectives from the Superior Court Bench: Litigating Against Self-Represented Parties: What do Judges Want You to Know?

If you represent a client pro bono in a family law or domestic violence case in Superior Court, 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. 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. Judge Carmen G. McLean will moderate the conversation with: Judge Julie Becker Judge Adrienne J. Noti Judge Stephen Rickard Judge Ebony Scott Thank you for joining us for this series!

Perspectives from the Superior Court Bench: Ramp Up Your Skills with Pro Bono – It’s Not Just for Litigators!

It’s true -- pro bono work in D.C. Superior Court primarily involves litigation. Yet every lawyer, no matter their type of practice or area of expertise, will benefit from the experience of handling matters in Superior Court. Join this interactive discussion with Superior Court judges about how you can use pro bono work in D.C. Superior Court to positively impact your professional development and career trajectory. The judges will share their perspectives on the transferable skills-building opportunities that pro bono trial work offers whether your routine practice involves litigation, transactional work, or administrative law. You’ll also learn about ways you can help expand access to justice in the D.C. Courts without necessarily taking on a case for representation. This discussion will be moderated by Judge Carmen G. McLean. Our panelists include: Judge Laura E. Crane Judge Deborah J. Israel Judge Carl Ezekiel (“Zeke”) Ross Judge Steven Wellner Register for the final session now! Session 3: Litigating Against Self-Represented Parties: What Judges Want You to Know April 1, 2025; 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm ET Register

Perspectives from the Superior Court Bench: Judges Want to See You in Superior Court!

You may have heard about the staggering numbers of individuals trying to navigate their way in the civil branches of D.C. Superior Court without representation -- simply because they cannot afford a lawyer: 88% of tenants face eviction proceedings without a lawyer, while 95% of landlords are represented; over 80% of plaintiffs and 90% of respondents in child custody and divorce cases don’t have a lawyer; 88% of petitioners and 95% of respondents in civil protection order cases are self-represented. Join this engaging conversation with Superior Court judges about how pro bono counsel – no matter their area of expertise or level of experience --make a critical difference in the administration of justice, particularly in the busiest courtrooms. The judges want to see you in court! And you’ll hear what the court is doing to help encourage pro bono counsel to keep “coming back.” Judge Carmen G. McLean will moderate a conversation with: Judge Robert Okun Judge Judith Pipe Judge Kenia Seoane López Judge Darlene M. Soltys And we encourage you to submit your questions for the judges in advance on the event registration page. Register for the next sessions right now- Session 2: Ramp Up Your Skills with Pro Bono: It’s Not Just for Litigators! January 28, 2025; 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm ET Register Session 3: Litigating Against Self-Represented Parties: What Judges Want You to Know April 1, 2025; 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm ET Register  

Volunteer! AILA Citizenship Day Clinic

AILA’s 19th Annual Citizenship Day event will take place on (or around) September 21, 2024. Citizenship Day is a single-day, nationwide event at which AILA chapters across the country partner with grassroots organizations to provide free or low-cost assistance to eligible lawful permanent residents who wish to apply for U.S. citizenship. We encourage you to be a part of this effort by signing up to volunteer. There is a need for both attorney and non-attorney volunteer at all events. If you are interested, register below. Please contact ailadccitizenship@gmail.com with any additional questions Clinics this year: Saturday, October 19, 2024 hosted by the DC Pro Bono Center and Carlos Rosario International Public Charter School Carlos Rosario International Public Charter School 1100 Harvard Street, NW, Washington, DC 20009 10:00AM -3:00PM

Graphic: Justice Impact Awards

Justice Impact Awards 2024

Each year, we recognize outstanding lawyers who make exceptional contributions to the pro bono and public-interest community and celebrate the hundreds of public-interest and pro bono professionals who dedicate time, expertise, finances, and compassion to helping their neighbors. Join us at our 2024 Justice Impact Awards to come together, recharge our collective batteries, celebrate our accomplishments, commiserate on our challenges, and be inspired. Our annual pro bono and public interest celebration is always unique, fun, and inspiring. Presidents Award for Public Service Chief Judge Anna Blackburne-Rigsby D.C. Court of Appeals Legal Services Amy Nelson Whitman-Walker Health Government Christine Ennis U.S. Department of Justice, Environment and Natural Resources Division Law Firm Jessica Hough Skadden Corporate Legal Department Kathi Westcott Pew Charitable Trusts Legacy Award Nancy Lopez Join us for a celebratory evening of delicious food & drink, inspiring community connections, and the chance to celebrate our local pro bono and public-interest advocates who work tirelessly to increase access to justice! You can also become a member at special rates when you purchase your tickets. VIRTUAL AUCTION! You can also support our mission of ensuring our justice system treats everyone fairly, regardless of money, position, or power through our virtual auction. Bidding is now open and closes on December 6th.  Treat your loved ones (or yourself) with fabulous items sure to make their day while supporting access to justice for all. We hope you will bid early and often! You can also honor this year's award recipients by sponsoring the Justice Impact Awards. For more information, please contact our Executive Director, Christina Jackson, at cjackson@wclawyers.org or 202-451-8129. Share the news on social media using #JusticeImpactAwards24!

Volunteer! DC Pro Bono Center Advice & Referral Clinic

DC Pro Bono Week is about celebrating pro bono and learning about the many opportunities available to do pro bono service! A fantastic opportunity that has been a pillar of pro bono in our community is the DC Bar Pro Bono Center's Advice & Referral Clinic! All experience is welcome! You don’t need to be an expert in any area of law. D.C. Bar Pro Bono Center staff and expert mentors will be on hand to answer any questions and help you provide brief advice and referrals to individuals who would otherwise be left to navigate the complex legal system alone. As a volunteer lawyer, you’ll answer questions about consumer law, family law, housing law, public benefits, bankruptcy, and other topics. Steet parking is available. A brief orientation takes place at 9:00 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. The clinic is held from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm at the DC Bar (901 4th St NW). You must register to volunteer by 5:00 pm on Wednesday, October 9! Important: If you are currently in a federal government position and would like to volunteer please contact Lara Eilhardt at Lara.Eilhardt@usdoj.gov. If you are currently a law student and would like to volunteer please contact Rachel Lawrence at lawrencera@cua.edu. Thank you!

DC Pro Bono Week 2024: Meeting Our Clients Where They Are: Serving Families East of the Anacostia River

Hosted by Children’s Law Center at the Children’s Health Center – Anacostia This event will provide participants with an opportunity to meet and engage in our client community. CLC staff will discuss their legal services work east of the Anacostia River and the importance of pro bono in serving D.C. neighbors. Participants will hear about CLC’s medical-legal partnership, how lawyers can address non-medical barriers to health, the benefits of co-locating legal services with non-lawyer professionals, and how you can get involved. Space is limited. This event is appropriate for folks from law firm and legal service organizations, as well as government attorneys, law students, and non-legal support staff. Spread the word and join the conversation on social media using #DCProBono24.  

DC Pro Bono Week 2024: Walk for Justice 5K

Washington Council of Lawyers invites you to support the inaugural DC Walk for Justice 5K on October 24, 2024! Join fellow justice-loving individuals for an afternoon of community, education, and fun! Walkers will follow a route showcasing views of Nationals Park and the Anacostia Riverwalk Trail. And it doesn't stop there! After the Walk, participants will celebrate with a finish line party with food, drinks, and music at Centerfield Plaza inside Nationals Park Stadium. The DC Walk for Justice 5K aims to raise $250,000 for the District’s pressing civil legal needs. All proceeds from the DC Walk for Justice 5K benefit the DC Bar Foundation, which works to make civil legal aid more accessible for all District residents through grantmaking, network coordination, community engagement, and more. The DC Bar Foundation is committed to transforming the District’s civil legal aid network so that all residents have a fair and equal legal experience. The Foundation has three goals for the Walk: to increase community awareness of the significant civil legal aid needs in the District of Columbia, to expand the network of lawyers, judges, and community members committed to supporting legal aid, and to raise at least $250,000 for the Foundation's transformative work. The Walk is patterned after the London Legal Walk, which raises more than $1 million annually for civil legal aid needs in London. Other communities in the UK, Australia, and the United States host annual legal walks. Spread the word and join the conversation on social media using #DCProBono24.

DC Pro Bono Week 2024: DC Superior Court Open House: Landlord and Tenant Branch

This event is cosponsored by the Superior Court Committee on Pro Bono & Affordable Counsel and the Housing Right to Counsel Project. Join us during Pro Bono Week for a special D.C. Superior Court Open House in the Landlord and Tenant Branch, cosponsored by the city - wide Housing Right to Counsel Project – a coalition of legal services providers and law firms that guarantee representation to certain tenants who are at particular risk of not only being evicted from their home, but possibly losing a critical housing subsidy, as well. Representatives from legal services organizations and the Housing Right to Counsel Project will introduce you to the Landlord and Tenant Branch – one of the Court’s high-volume branches where pro bono representation is greatly needed to help tenants assert their rights and defenses in eviction cases. You’ll observe court proceedings, meet with judges, and learn how you can help tenants maintain safe and affordable housing and expand access to justice in our community. The Landlord and Tenant Branch – within the Court’s Civil Division – has limited jurisdiction and only adjudicates eviction cases filed by landlords against tenants. Fewer than 15% of tenants facing eviction proceedings have legal representation, while 95% of landlords are represented. Are you ready to learn more? We look forward to welcoming you! 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. Spread the word and join the conversation on social media using #DCProBono24.

DC Pro Bono Week 2024: Mobilizing After The Election

An election always brings change. If the incumbent wins, they may feel they have the freedom to push policy agendas in a second term. If the challenger wins, they may feel they’ve been handed a mandate to pursue their differing policies. In a presidential election, the stakes are higher and the policies reach further. Regardless of the outcome of the 2024 presidential election, there will be issues on which the public-interest and pro bono community will need to mobilize quickly. In this discussion, our panelists will discuss the most pressing issues of this election and how we as advocates and legal professionals can use our skills and resources to respond to potential results of the election. Our panelists include: Emily Martin, Chief Program Officer, National Women's Law Center Laurie Ball Cooper, Vice President, U.S. Legal Programs, International Refugee Assistance Project The discussion will be moderated by Andy Budzinski, Associate Professor of Law and Director of the Elliott Milstein Civil Advocacy Clinic at the American University Washington of Law and Washington Council of Lawyers board member. We invite lawyers, law students, legal professionals, community partners, social service organizations, and anyone whose work will be affected by the results of the election. Spread the word and join the conversation on social media using #DCProBono24.

DC Pro Bono Week 2024: Hot Topics Panel: Election Protection

Join us during DC Pro Bono Week for a timely panel discussion on election protection and how you can make a difference in the upcoming election. Our panel of experts will explore the legal challenges surrounding election integrity and the vital role pro bono volunteers play in safeguarding voters' rights. Learn how to get involved in this critical work and provide legal assistance to protect the democratic process. Don't miss this chance to contribute to fair and accessible elections! Our panelists include: Sylvia Albert, Democracy and Representation Policy Counsel, Common Cause Angie Pitha, Project Lead, Election Official Legal Defense Network Nick Gothard, Senior National Coordinator, Lawyer's Committee The panel will be moderated by Ashley Erickson, Senior Director of Network Advancement, American Constitution Society Spread the word and join the conversation on social media using #DCProBono24.

DC Pro Bono Week 2024: It Takes A Village: Highlighting the Value of Pro Bono Representation in Family Law

Hosted by Children’s Law Center, D.C. Bar Pro Bono Center, Legal Aid DC, and Mother’s Outreach Network. Please join us for a lively panel discussion on the need for pro bono representation in cases impacting families. This panel will discuss challenges individuals face in securing representation and dispel myths about who our clients are. Panelists will share their experiences representing parents, third-party caregivers, and the best interests of children. We’ll also be joined by D.C. Superior Court Judge Becker who will share her view from the bench. Come learn why access to justice in family law means everyone has a lawyer. Attendees will receive information about how they can get involved, ranging from limited scope to extended representation. Registrants will receive a Zoom link in advance of the event. Our discussion will be moderated by Jen Masi (Children’s Law Center) and participants will hear from the below panelists: Jenadee Nanini (D.C. Bar Pro Bono Center) Meridel Bulle-Vu (Legal Aid DC) Melody Webb (Mother’s Outreach Network) The Honorable Julie Becker (D.C. Superior Court) This event is appropriate for folks from law firm and legal service organizations, as well as government attorneys, law students, and non-legal support staff. Spread the word and join the conversation on social media using #DCPBW24.

DC Pro Bono Week 2024: NVLSP Veterans Discharge Upgrade File Review Training

The National Veterans Legal Services Program (NVLSP) will present a one hour training on discharge upgrades and NVLSP’s limited scope discharge upgrade file review project. This limited scope pro bono opportunity enables volunteers to review and screen the files of veterans who have applied to NVLSP for pro bono assistance with a discharge upgrade. NVLSP’s Lawyers Serving Warriors® discharge upgrade program assists veterans in applying to upgrade their characterization of service, for example from “Other Than Honorable” (OTH) to a more favorable characterization such as “Honorable” or “General (Under Honorable Conditions)”. A discharge upgrade may help veterans receive VA benefits and health care, improve employment opportunities, and restore reputation and self-esteem. Many veterans served through this project have Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), traumatic brain injuries (TBI), or other mental health conditions that are related to military service. Many veterans served through this program are survivors of Military Sexual Trauma. NVLSP screens every applicant to its discharge upgrade program before referring the matter to a pro bono partner for full representation. The file review project tasks volunteers with conducting a preliminary screen by reviewing and analyzing the files of clients who have applied for a discharge upgrade so that NVLSP screening attorneys are able to review the files more quickly. This project is primarily administrative in nature and can be completed by attorneys or non-attorneys alike. Pro bono volunteers create a Word table or Excel spreadsheet cataloging the client files and return the file review work product to NVLSP within about one month of acceptance of the matter. The project is remote and can be completed anywhere. Pro bono volunteers will agree to abide by the NVLSP confidentiality agreement. The estimated time commitment is 10-15 hours per project, and volunteers may work in teams. NVLSP’s DC pro bono week presentation is open to all. However, government attorneys may not accept NVLSP discharge upgrade file review matters and NVLSP discharge upgrade file review pro bono opportunities are limited. Spread the word and join the conversation on social media using #DCPBW24.

Pro Bono Goes Local: A Launch Celebration for DC Pro Bono Week

Join us in launching our DC Pro Bono Week 2024 celebration – and bring a colleague or two along with you! Our program will open with a warm welcome from D.C. Court of Appeals Chief Judge Anna Blackburne-Rigsby and Superior Court Associate Judge Carmen G. McLean, co-chair the Court’s Committee on Pro Bono & Affordable Counsel.  Then we’ll have an engaging discussion about innovative and creative collaborations between legal services providers and pro bono counsel, and ideally you’ll walk away with some fresh ideas to explore.  Don’t miss this chance to learn about how our legal services and pro bono colleagues are working smarter together to address the legal needs in our community. Sylvia Soltis, Director of Legal Aid DC’s Pro Bono Program, will moderate the conversation among these inspiring pro bono leaders: Blair Decker, Pro Bono Counsel, Hogan Lovells Danielle Moise, Pro Bono Attorney, Covington & Burling Michael Park, Partner, Alston & Bird Tiana Russell, Public Service Counsel, Crowell & Moring Pro Bono Goes Local is free to attend, but advance registration is required.   Please arrive at 8:30 a.m. for registration, light breakfast, and catching up with colleagues and friends!  The program will begin promptly at 9:00 a.m. The event is appropriate for law firm/private practice, legal services, non-profit, and government attorneys, as well as law students and non-legal support staff. Spread the word and join the conversation on social media using #DCProBono24!

DC Pro Bono Week 2024: DC Superior Court Open House: Domestic Relations Branch

This event is cosponsored by the Superior Court Committee on Pro Bono & Affordable Counsel, Children’s Law Center, and DC Bar Pro Bono Center. Join us for a D.C. Superior Court Open House where representatives from legal services organizations will introduce you to the Family Court’s Domestic Relations Branch – one of the Court’s high-volume branches where pro bono representation in child custody cases is greatly needed. You’ll observe court proceedings, meet with judges, and learn how you can help families achieve stability and expand access to justice in our community. Pro bono counsel may represent custodial parents, non-custodial parents, or third-party caregivers in child custody matters. They also serve as guardians ad litem (GALs), representing the “best interests” of the children involved. Whether representing a party or serving as a GAL in a custody case, you’ll be helping to secure stability for a family with limited means, as well as enhancing your professional skills. Are you ready to learn more? We look forward to welcoming you! 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. Spread the word and join the conversation on social media using #DCProBono24.

DC Pro Bono Week 2024: DC Superior Court Open House: Housing Conditions

This event is cosponsored by the Superior Court Committee on Pro Bono & Affordable Counsel, Children’s Law Center, and DC Bar Pro Bono Center. Join us for a D.C. Superior Court Open House where representatives from legal services organizations will introduce you to the Housing Conditions Court– one of the Court’s high-volume branches where pro bono representation is greatly needed to help tenants obtain needed repairs and remediation of housing code violations. You’ll observe court proceedings, meet with judges, and learn how you can help tenants ensure safe housing for them and their families, and expand access to justice in our community. The Housing Conditions Court -- within the Court’s Civil Division -- allows tenants to sue their landlords to obtain needed repairs and ensure that their landlords comply with the D.C. Housing Code. The calendar is intended to be a “problem-solving court” – limited by design and only available to tenants living in rental units who are seeking to enforce compliance with the housing code. Are you ready to learn more? We look forward to welcoming you! 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. Spread the word and join the conversation on social media using #DCProBono24.

DC Pro Bono Week 2024: DC Superior Court Open House: Domestic Violence Division

This event is cosponsored by the Superior Court Committee on Pro Bono & Affordable Counsel, DC Volunteer Lawyers Project, and Network for Victim Recovery of DC (NVRDC). Join us for a D.C. Superior Court Open House where representatives from legal services organizations will introduce you to the Domestic Violence Division – one of the Court’s high-volume branches where pro bono representation is greatly needed in civil protection order (CPO) cases. You’ll observe court proceedings, meet with judges, and learn how you can help survivors who are seeking protection orders and expand access to justice in our community. The Open House will focus on pro bono opportunities to represent petitioners seeking CPOs. A person can file a petition for a CPO against someone who has committed or threatened to commit an intrafamily offense, sexual assault, sexual abuse, or sex or labor trafficking against them. By providing pro bono representation, you can help protect a petitioner from harm, as well as enhance your professional skills. Are you ready to learn more? We look forward to welcoming you! 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. Spread the word and join the conversation on social media using #DCProBono24.

DC Pro Bono Week 2024: To AI or Not to AI: Legal Practicalities and Ethical Conundrums of Using AI

Join us for "To AI or not to AI: Legal Practicalities and Ethical Conundrums of Using AI," where a panel of legal experts will delve into the role of AI in modernizing the delivery of legal services. This session will explore the balance between leveraging AI for efficiency and innovation in legal practice and navigating the ethical and legal challenges that come with it, ensuring AI enhances rather than compromises access to justice. [Description generated by AI, refined by humans] The conversation will be moderated by Laura Possessky, Chair of the Science & Technology Law Section of the American Bar Association. Our panelists include: David Greisen, DC Refers Board Member & Chief Executive Officer & Founding Board Member of Open Law Library Joseph Schieffer, CEO, A2J Tech Raymond List, Director of Strategy and Risk Management, D.C. Bar This event is appropriate for folks from law firms, legal service organizations as well as government attorneys, law students, and non-legal support staff! Spread the word and join the conversation on social media using #DCPBW24.

Pro Bono Partnerships: Strengthening and Innovating Collaboration

Join us for Pro Bono Partnerships: Strengthening and Innovating Collaboration, part of our Best Practices in Pro Bono series, an engaging and open forum for legal services providers, law firms, and other community members and organizations committed to promoting and increasing pro bono services. This candid conversation will focus on different types of pro bono partnerships and address the opportunities and challenges of such partnerships, exploring innovative solutions for building stronger, more effective collaborations. This panel will delve into the pain points that often hinder successful partnerships, and strategies to mitigate or avoid them. Attendees will gain insights from both sides of the table, sharing experiences and best practices for overcoming obstacles and maximizing impact. Whether you’re looking to refine an existing partnership or explore new ways to collaborate, this event will provide valuable perspectives and actionable strategies to help you advance pro bono initiatives. Our moderator will be Jen Masi, Pro Bono Director at the Children's Law Center, in conversation with: Rwanda Campbell, Pro Bono Manager, Arnold & Porter Lisa Dewey, Pro Bono Partner, DLA Piper Jen Tschirch, Director, Pro Bono Programs, Georgetown Law Kaitlin Banner, Deputy Legal Director, Washington Lawyers' Committee for Civil Rights and Urban Affairs Don’t miss this chance to connect with like-minded professionals, exchange ideas, and contribute to the future of pro bono work.

Fall Kickoff 2024

Our annual Fall Kickoff is the first event of our new board year. Join us for food, drink, and the chance to build a stronger public-interest community. At this casual happy hour, you can learn about how to get involved in our work, meet our new board members,  and mingle with other members of the pro bono and public-interest community. Don't miss this chance to see old friends and make new public-interest connections, including our new board members!  You also can join one of our standing committees, learn about our trainings and programs, and sign up for upcoming events. Our Fall Kickoff is free, thanks to our hosts Goodwin Procter. We hope you will attend, and invite friends to join you!  Spread the word!  #FallKickoff24

Litigation Skills Series: Depositions

Depositions can be useful tools in all kinds of cases. A deposition can be an effective and affordable tool for pro bono and public-interest lawyers and their clients. The course will feature a mix of lecture and demonstration with plenty of time for Q&A. We will cover the basics of both taking and defending depositions. Here are some key learning objectives: Understanding Deposition Procedures: Gain a comprehensive understanding of the rules, procedures, and legal standards governing depositions. Effective Questioning Techniques: Learn how to craft and deliver strategic questions to gather valuable information and challenge the opposing party’s testimony. Handling Witnesses: Develop skills to effectively handle different types of witnesses, including hostile or uncooperative ones. Ethical Considerations: Understand the ethical obligations and responsibilities during the deposition process. Deposition Strategy: Develop strategies for preparing clients and deponents, anticipating opposing counsel's tactics, and using depositions to advance your case. We'll discuss such topics as how to frame effective questions, proper use of direct vs. leading questions, personal style, use of outlines, and deposition strategy.  And then we'll turn to defending depositions and discuss how to prepare a witness (both on the facts of the case and on how to be an effective witness) and how to defend the actual deposition.  There will also be a demonstration on taking and defending a deposition in a housing case. Bring your lunch, and join us in learning the basics of how to prepare yourself and your witness for a deposition, what techniques are most effective, and what traps to avoid. The CLE credits for this training are pending. Scholarships are available thanks to the generosity of the D.C. Bar Foundation. Please complete this form to apply for a scholarship.

Back To Top