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.

Graphic: Racial Justice Series Partnerships Creating Deep and Lasting Change

Racial Justice Series: Partnerships Creating Deep and Lasting Change: The Law Firm Antiracism Alliance

Join us for a special summer presentation to learn about the impactful work of the Law Firm Antiracism Alliance. While not a law firm or legal services organization, LFAA is committed to leveraging the resources of the private bar in partnership with legal services organizations to amplify the voices of communities and individuals oppressed by racism, particularly anti-Black racism, to better use the law as a vehicle for change that benefits communities of color and to promote racial equity in the law. LFAA’s goal is simple:  racial equity.  Facilitating pro bono work is the primary mechanism by which we pursue this goal. Our panelists include: Kathleen Wach, Pro Bono Counsel for Miller & Chevalier Ted Howard, Pro Bono Partner at Wiley Rein Guerby Noel, Operations Manager for the Law Firm Antiracism Alliance Paul Lee, Pro Bono Partner at Steptoe LLP and Washington Council of Lawyers Board Member will moderate the conversation. Spread the word on social media using #RacialJustice.  

Best Practices in Pro Bono: Using AI to Further Access to Justice – Where Do We Start?

In our last Best Practices in Pro Bono session, we defined artificial intelligence (AI) and explored how AI has been, is being, and can be used in legal services generally, and to facilitate access to justice and pro bono in particular. That session raised many questions, the most pressing of which is how. How can we use AI to further access to justice and what are the considerations for its responsible use? How do we ensure equity and quality service delivery to clients? Join our expert panel as we confront the reality of AI, discuss how legal institutions can and should educate themselves on this ever-changing field, and explore the conversations we should be having about implementing AI. Bring your questions and experiences. We'll save time for attendee engagement during the session. Our panelists include: Tiana Russell, Pro Bono Counsel, Crowell & Moring Michael Lukens, Executive Director, CAIR Coalition  Jim Sandman, Vice-Chair of the ABA Task Force on Law and Artificial Intelligence, Law Professor, President Emeritus of the Legal Services Corporation, Past President of the D.C. Bar (and so, so much more!) The conversation will be moderated by Jen Masi, Pro Bono Director, Children's Law Center We want to respond to what's on your mind. Please share your questions/issues in advance of our discussion. Either add them to your registration or email Christina Jackson at cjackson@wclawyers.org.  We welcome pro bono coordinators from law firms, corporations, legal services providers, nonprofits, and government agencies from DC and across the country.

D.C. Bar Pro Bono Center Advice & Referral Clinic (July 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, July 27th 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 to participate. The deadline to volunteer is Wednesday, July 17 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. IMPORTANT: 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!

Graphic: 2024 Summer Forum with each of 6 panel graphics in a grid

2024 Summer Pro Bono & Public Interest Forum

Our Summer Pro Bono & Public Interest Forum is an annual tradition that brings together lawyers, summer associates, summer interns, and others interested in using their law degrees to help those in need. It’s also a great way to highlight the importance of pro bono and public-interest work throughout one’s legal career. You may register to attend the Summer Forum anytime before Thursday, June 27. If you missed previous sessions, we will send you links to the recordings of those earlier events.  We kicked off the forum with an in-person and live-streamed keynote conversation with Fatima Goss Graves, President & CEO of the National Women's Law Center. Ms. Goss Graves is a nationally recognized leader in the fight for gender justice and an expert in law, policy, and culture change. We enjoyed discussing her work across a broad set of issues central to the lives of women and girls – including income security and COVID relief, equal pay, ending sexual harassment and violence, health and reproductive rights, education access, and workplace justice – with a particular focus on outcomes for women and girls of color. A recording of our discussion is available to all registrants. We now dive deeper into six substantive practice areas through virtual panel discussions where you will learn more about pro bono and public-interest work in DC and across the country. Each panel focuses on a different practice area, featuring presentations by national and local experts in that legal specialty. All discussions will take place from 12:00-1:30 pm ET. The panel topics will include: June 26 – Non-Litigation Pro Bono June 26 – Environmental Justice June 26 – Criminal Law & Death Penalty June 27 – Poverty Law June 27 – Civil Rights & Civil Liberties June 27 – Immigration & Human Rights The Summer Forum is open to Washington Council of Lawyers members (join), participants in summer associate and summer intern programs, lawyers in law firms, government and public-interest organizations, law students, and others interested in learning more about incorporating public-interest law into their practice. You can attend from anywhere! A single registration provides access to all three days of Summer Forum sessions, and recordings of each session will be sent to all registered attendees. The cost is just $45 for WCL Members; $65 for Government & Public-Interest Lawyers, Interns, and Individual Law Students; and $105 for Law Firm Lawyers, Summer Associates, Corporate Law Department Lawyers, Law Department Interns, and the General Public. Bulk registrations are available. Please email Christina Jackson (at cjackson@wclawyers.org) if you need any assistance. Look for updates and join the conversation about the Summer Forum using #SumFo24 on Instagram, Facebook, X, and LinkedIn!

Supreme Court: View from the Press Gallery (2024)

As the Supreme Court’s term ends, we'll take a behind-the-headlines look at the Court's work with our panel of distinguished journalists who have covered the Supreme Court for decades. Our panel includes: John Fritze (CNN) Amy Howe (Howe on the Court and contributor to SCOTUSblog) David Savage (Los Angeles Times) Mark Sherman (Associated Press) Abbie VanSickle (New York Times) The panel will be moderated by Art Spitzer, Senior Counsel, ACLU-DC. The cost of this program is $35 for Washington Council of Lawyers members; $45 for public interest & government attorneys as well as interns and law students, and$60 law firm associates, summer associates, and the general public . (Join here to receive the discounted price.) Lunch is provided and the program offers open seating, so please arrive early! We look forward to having you join us for lunch and a fascinating discussion of the recently-concluded Supreme Court term! Finally, if you'd like your summer associates or interns to attend and need assistance registering them as a group, email our Executive Director, Christina Jackson at cjackson@wclawyers.org. Join and follow the conversation at #SCOTUSpress!

Graphic: Managing Student Debt

Managing Student Debt

Student loan debt is a reality for most lawyers. Lawyers at law firms, non-profits, and the government all juggle student loans, so lawyers employed (or aspiring to be employed!) in all legal sectors need a smart and thorough plan for managing their student loan debt. Take control of your student debt obligations. Join Aoife Delargy Lowe, Vice President of Law School Engagement & Advocacy at Equal Justice Works for an in-depth discussion of Public Service Loan Forgiveness, Loan Repayment Assistance Programs, payment options, and student loan management. We will discuss repayment program terms and conditions and provide tips on consolidation where required. Find out the latest developments in student loan management techniques and how to maximize your repayment options. This program is ideal for law students, recent graduates, and lawyers in private and public practice. Thank you to the D. C. Consortium of Legal Services Providers for co-sponsoring!

D.C. Superior Court Open House: Domestic Violence Division

This event is hosted by D.C Superior Court and Washington Council of Lawyers and co-sponsored by 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 and experienced pro bono counsel will introduce you to the Domestic Violence Division – one of the Court’s highest-volume branches where pro bono representation is greatly needed. You’ll observe court proceedings, meet with Superior Court Judges, and learn how you can help expand access to justice in our community by providing representation to persons with limited means. The Open House will focus on pro bono opportunities to represent petitioners seeking Civil Protection Orders (CPOs). A person can file 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’ll be helping someone seeking protection from domestic and/or sexual violence, as well as enhancing your professional skills. 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.

D.C. Superior Court Open House: Domestic Relations Branch

This event is hosted by D.C Superior Court and Washington Council of Lawyers and co-sponsored by D.C. Bar Pro Bono Center and Children’s Law Center Join us for a D.C. Superior Court Open House where representatives from legal services organizations and experienced pro bono counsel will introduce you to the Domestic Relations Branch – one of the Court’s highest-volume branches where pro bono representation in child custody cases is greatly needed. You’ll observe court proceedings, meet with Superior Court Judges, and learn how you can help 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. 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.

Graphic: Co-sponsored event standing people in a circle with hands in the center

Meet the Next Chief Judge Candidate Forum

Join the Council for Court Excellence for "Meet the Next Chief Judge"! At this candidate forum, interested members of the public will hear from the judges who have applied to succeed the Hon. Anita Josey-Herring as the Chief Judge of the Superior Court of the District of Columbia. Come hear about Judge Marisa Demeo and Milton Lee, Jr.’s goals and plans as they seek to be the Superior Court’s next leader. This will be an invaluable opportunity for members of the bar and community at large to learn about the priorities and approaches of the Chief Judge applicants prior to the June 20 deadline for submitting public comments to the D.C. Judicial Nomination Commission.  A welcome reception will take place from 5:15-6:00 pm and the Candidate Forum will be 6:00-7:30 pm. Thank you to UDC David A. Clarke School of Law for hosting the forum. We are pleased to co-sponsor this important event with: ACLU of DC Asian Pacific American Bar Association for the Greater Washington, DC Area Bar Association of the District of Columbia DC Access to Justice Commission DC Appleseed Center for Law & Justice Greater Washington Area Chapter, Women Lawyers Division, National Bar Association Hispanic Bar Association of the District of Columbia Washington Bar Association Women’s Bar Association of the District of Columbia

Volunteer at the DC Bar Pro Bono Center’s Advice and Referral Clinic (May 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, May 18th 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 Wednesday, May 8 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!

Fellowships 101 (2024)

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 panel includes: Moderator: Jennie Netburn, Fellowships Counselor, Georgetown University Law Center Kathleen Rubenstein, Executive Director, Skadden Jessica Ryckman, Director of Fellowships, Equal Justice Works Zakiya Lewis, Skadden Fellow, Lawyer's Committee for Civil Rights Under the Law Lee Tremblay, Justice Catalyst Fellow, Legal Voice 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. Fellowships 101 is free for Washington Council of Lawyers members (join) and law students of Public Interest Jobs Clearinghouse (PIJC) subscriber law schools; the cost is just $10 for non-members. Not sure if you attend a law school that subscribes to the PIJC? Contact your law school career development office to find out. Join the conversation on social media #Fellowships101.

Litigation Skills Series: Trial Advocacy

Join us for two jam-packed days of Trial Advocacy on Thursday, May 2 and Friday, May 3. The training will take place from 9:00 -5:00 pm ET both days! View the  2024 Litigation Skills Series: Trial Advocacy Full Schedule here. We will focus on the four fundamental trial skills: Opening Statements, Direct Examinations, Cross-Examinations, and Closing Arguments.  Each topic will begin with a lecture by an expert trainer and a demonstration by skilled litigators showing how to put the lesson into practice. Then, we will move to small group breakout rooms where each attendee will get up and practice the skill of the day. Breakout room facilitators will offer individualized, constructive feedback to each participant. Attendees should plan to spend some time between each session to prepare for the on-your-feet breakout sessions. We are so excited to bring this training back in person! Our in person sessions offer the incredible individualized practice and feedback. You will be able to practice every part of litigation with experienced attorneys. Our fact pattern features a Domestic Violence CPO case, but you need not know anything about substantive law in this area to benefit from the training. For Washington Council of Lawyers members, this comprehensive Trial Advocacy training costs just $135. For non-members, the cost is $235. (Join Washington Council of Lawyers to take advantage of the discounted member rates.) Scholarships are available thanks to the generosity of the D.C. Bar Foundation. To apply for a scholarship, please complete this online scholarship form. CLE credits are pending for this training for CA, NY, NJ. This session always sells out. Save your seat today! Registration closes Monday, April 29 at 5:00 pm ET.

Best Practices in Pro Bono: The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Pro Bono and Access to Justice

This Best Practices conversation will define and explain what we mean by Artificial Intelligence or “AI.” Building on that shared understanding, we will discuss how AI has been, is being, and will be used in legal services generally, and to facilitate access to justice and pro bono in particular. We will explore the benefits, use cases, and opportunities for innovation, and the potential risks of this emerging technology. The panel will touch on practical considerations, ethical implications, equity, access, and opportunities for collaboration among large law firms, corporations, nonprofit organizations, and courts as using AI rapidly shifts from optional to obligatory. Our discussion will be led by: Panelists Tiana Russell, Pro Bono Counsel, Crowell & Moring Michael Lukens, Executive Director, CAIR Coalition  Adrián Palma, Pro Bono Program Manager, Microsoft Corporation Jim Sandman, Vice-Chair of the ABA Task Force on Law and Artificial Intelligence, Law Professor, President Emeritus of the Legal Services Corporation, Past President of the D.C. Bar (and so, so much more!) Bring your lunch and your questions. We'll provide the cookies and the answers. Pro bono coordinators from law firms, corporations, legal services providers, nonprofits, and government agencies are welcome to join the conversation!

Graphic: Pathways to the District of Columbia Bench

Pathways to the District of Columbia Bench

The District of Columbia Judicial Nomination Commission (JNC) screens, selects, and recommends to the President of the United States candidates for appointment to the Superior Court of the District of Columbia and the District of Columbia Court of Appeals, and appoints the chief judges for both courts. Join members of the JNC for a unique opportunity to learn about the JNC and our local judicial selection process, obtain advice on applying to become a judge in the District of Columbia, and the pitfalls to avoid during the application process. Panelists include: Honorable Marie C. Johns, CEO, PPC-Leftwich; Chair, JNC Benjamin F. Wilson, Retired Chairman, Beveridge & Diamond, P.C.; Vice-Chair, JNC Tracy B. Nutall, Executive Director, JNC Don't forget to add this event to your calendar when you register! Click the "Add to My Calendar" button at the top right-hand corner of the registration page.

Graphic: 2024 Summer Forum Keynote with picture of Fatima Goss Graves

2024 Summer Pro Bono & Public Interest Forum

Our Summer Pro Bono & Public Interest Forum is an annual tradition that brings together lawyers, summer associates, summer interns, and others interested in making pro bono or public-interest work a part of their legal careers and provides an introduction to several different types of public-interest practice. We’ll kick off the forum with an in-person and live-streamed keynote conversation with Fatima Goss Graves, President & CEO of the National Women's Law Center on Thursday, June 20 from 5:30-7:30 pm ET. Following the keynote, we will dive deeper into six substantive practice areas through virtual panel discussions where you can learn more about pro bono and public-interest work in DC and across the country. Each panel will focus on a different practice area, featuring presentations by national and local experts in that legal specialty. All discussions will take place from 12:00-1:30 pm ET. The panel topics will include: June 26 – Non-Litigation Pro Bono June 26 – Environmental Justice June 26 – Criminal Law & Death Penalty June 27 – Poverty Law June 27 – Civil Rights & Civil Liberties June 27 – Immigration & Human Rights The Summer Forum is open to Washington Council of Lawyers members (join), participants in summer associate and summer intern programs, lawyers in law firms, government and public-interest organizations, law students, and others interested in learning more about incorporating public-interest law into their practice. You can attend from anywhere! A single registration provides access to all three days of Summer Forum sessions, and recordings of each session will be sent to all registered attendees. You can choose to attend the in-person keynote and reception or participate in the live stream. All the panels are virtual. The cost for the in-person keynote'/virtual panel option is $65 for WCL Members; $85 for Government & Public-Interest Lawyers, Interns, and Individual Law Students; and $115 for Law Firm Lawyers, Summer Associates, Corporate Law Department Lawyers, Law Department Interns, and the General Public. The all-virtual option is just $45 for WCL Members; $65 for Government & Public-Interest Lawyers, Interns, and Individual Law Students; and $105 for Law Firm Lawyers, Summer Associates, Corporate Law Department Lawyers, Law Department Interns, and General Public. Summer Program Coordinators: If you’d like your summer associates or interns to attend, but don’t yet know their names, you can register them as guests (First Name: Guest 1, Last Name: Organization Name). Bulk registrations are available. Please email Christina Jackson (at cjackson@wclawyers.org) if you need any assistance. Look for updates and join the conversation about the Summer Forum using #SumFo24 on Instagram, Facebook, X, and LinkedIn!

Members Only Series: Client Storytelling

Conquering client interviewing is only half the battle. The other half comes when its time to share their story with the world. The second part in our Members-Only series will give you insights and advice you need to share their story at the stage of advocacy you're in. Learn how to synthesize your client's story and effectively communicate it to fact-finders or in policy advocacy and organizational reporting. Effectively sharing your client's story is important to both seeking justice in individual cases and advocating for justice on a systemic level. We will explore how to communicate your client's position in a way that helps the factfinder understand the facts and be persuaded to act in your client's favor. You will walk away with tips for using emotional, metaphorical language to turn the events of your case into a meaningful narrative. Client Storytelling takes place on Wednesday, May 8 from 12:00 pm to 1:30 pm via Zoom. If you haven't registered for Client Interviewing yet, there's still time! Check it out here.

Members-Only Series: Client Interviewing

We want to help you maximize your client interactions and your ability to communicate their story. Join us for this Members-Only series to gain the insights you need to be an empathetic and effective advocate at every stage. Refine your client interviewing skills in the first part of this Members-Only series - Client Interviewing! Hear from seasoned experts about effective communication techniques, rapport-building strategies, and advice that will help you understand clients' needs. Join us to ensure you are gathering the information you need for a successful representation while centering your client. We'll discuss initial intakes and first attorney interviews, trauma-informed practices, and effectively putting your client in control of their case among other topics. Client Interviewing takes place on Wednesday, April 17 from 12:00 pm to 1:30 pm via Zoom. Then mark your calendars for Wednesday, May 8th for the second part - Client Storytelling! Learn how to synthesize your client's story and effectively communicate it to fact-finders or in policy advocacy and organizational reporting. Effectively sharing your client's story is important to both seeking justice in individual cases and advocating for justice on a systemic level. We will explore how to communicate your client's position in a way that helps the factfinder understand the facts and be persuaded to act in your client's favor. You will walk away with tips for using emotional, metaphorical language to turn the events of your case into a meaningful narrative. If you'd like to register for this event, but are not yet a member, join now!  

Litigation Skills Series: Impeachment

Join us for an intensive and comprehensive training designed to equip you with the essential skills and strategies for effectively impeaching witnesses during trial proceedings. Impeaching a witness can be a critical element in shaping the outcome of a case, and mastery of this art is essential for any trial advocate. Through a combination of expert-led seminars, practical demonstrations, and interactive workshops, participants will delve into the nuances of witness impeachment techniques. Seasoned trial lawyers will provide insights, best practices, and real-world examples, offering invaluable guidance on: 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 Friday, April 5 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 approved for this course 1.75 CA general, 2.0 NJ general, and 2.0 NY skills (newly admitted and experienced). Credit may be available in other jurisdictions. Don't forget to add this event to your calendar when you register! Click the "Add to My Calendar" button at the top right hand corner of the registration page.

Graphic: Leadership Institute - 4 sessions dates

Leadership Institute: Personnel Actions

Personnel actions can be some of the hardest situations to navigate for any leader. In the public sector, we often see less formal evaluation processes or evaluation processes that are supposed to be one-size-fits-all. There may not be clear guidance about what to do if a team member is underperforming. As a supervisor, there may be no mechanism for feedback on your performance. You may have no idea how to provide feedback or might not be sure how to solicit feedback. We will cover all these issues and more with government supervisor Alessandro Terenzoni at the last session of our Leadership Institute. This session is from 12:00-1:30 pm ET. The cost is just $40 per session for members and $60 per session for non-members. Scholarships are available thanks to the generosity of the DC Bar Foundation. Please fill out this online scholarship request form. These sessions are designed specifically for public interest lawyers. We will address the specific challenges and rewards that come with early career leadership responsibilities, offer concrete tips and strategies for supporting your team, and explore how self-care must be a part of your professional competencies. Our Leadership Institute is appropriate for lawyers who are currently team leaders, first or second-line supervisors, those who hope to move into a leadership role in the next 12 months, and anyone who could use a primer on effective leadership. Don't forget to add this event to your calendar when you register! Click the "Add to My Calendar" button at the top right hand corner of the registration page.

Graphic: Leadership Institute - 4 sessions dates

Leadership Institute: Wellness & Managing Secondary Trauma: Why It’s Important to Professional Competency

Leadership in the public interest presents unique challenges. You often find yourself being offered leadership roles very early in your career. It can be overwhelming to navigate all the obstacles. That is why wellness and self-care have to be part of your professional competencies. Additionally, public-sector lawyers face secondary trauma and other factors that affect their personal lives. This session of our Leadership Institute will help all of us navigate the landscape of leadership while supporting our teams and effectively caring for ourselves. This session will be led by Daniela de la Piedra, former lawyer, and Founder & Principal of Everyday Daniela Professional Coaching Services. Then, we will take a deeper dive into the core competencies of leadership in the last session.. Personnel Actions on Tuesday, June 25 All the sessions are from 12:00-1:30 pm ET. The cost is just $40 per session for members and $60 per session for non-members. There is also a discounted package rate for the 2 remaining sessions. Scholarships are available thanks to the generosity of the DC Bar Foundation. Please fill out this online scholarship request form. These sessions are designed specifically for public interest lawyers. We will address the specific challenges and rewards that come with early career leadership responsibilities, offer concrete tips and strategies for supporting your team, and explore how self-care must be a part of your professional competencies. Our Leadership Institute is appropriate for lawyers who are currently team leaders, first or second-line supervisors, those who hope to move into a leadership role in the next 12 months, and anyone who could use a primer on effective leadership. Don't forget to add this event to your calendar when you register! Click the "Add to My Calendar" button at the top right hand corner of the registration page.

Graphic: Leadership Institute Four-Part Series

Leadership Institute: Managing vs Supervising: How to Support Your Team While Moving Forward the Mission

The public sector presents many unique challenges as you progress through your career. Unlike the private sector, you will have sole client responsibility right away and you may find yourself moving into a leadership role 3-5 years into your first position. In session 2, we will discuss managing vs supervising. Our conversation will be led by Michael Lukens, Associate Director of the CAIR Coalition. Then, we will take a deeper dive into the core competencies of leadership in the following two sessions. Wellness & Managing Secondary Trauma: Why It's Important to Professional Competency on Tuesday, May 21 Personnel Actions on Tuesday, June 25 All the sessions are from 12:00-1:30 pm ET. The cost is just $40 per session for members and $60 per session for non-members. There is also a discounted package rate for the 3 remaining sessions. Scholarships are available thanks to the generosity of the DC Bar Foundation. Please fill out this online scholarship request form. These sessions are designed specifically for public interest lawyers. We will address the specific challenges and rewards that come with early career leadership responsibilities, offer concrete tips and strategies for supporting your team, and explore how self-care must be a part of your professional competencies. Our Leadership Institute is appropriate for lawyers who are currently team leaders, first or second-line supervisors, those who hope to move into a leadership role in the next 12 months, and anyone who could use a primer on effective leadership. Don't forget to add this event to your calendar when you register! Click the "Add to My Calendar" button at the top right hand corner of the registration page.

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