Volunteer
VLPCNY is always looking for new volunteers to help provide free legal services. Learn more below.
Click HERE To View Pro Bono Opportunities for Attorneys Interested In Giving Back to Central New York
Below Are Examples Of Volunteer Roles Within Our Agency:
Attorneys: Click HERE to view pro bono opportunities for attorneys. VLPCNY offers remote, in-person, brief service and ongoing representation options for those interested in pro bono work. We provide training, malpractice insurance, supervision and support to volunteer lawyers. VLPCNY is a pro bono CLE provider. You may be eligible for (1) CLE credit for every (2) hours of pro bono service provided to low-income clients through our programs. For more informationn, visit the NY State Courts website on CLE credits here. Click HERE to download our volunteer manual. Sign up HERE to express an interest in volunteering.
Retired Attorneys: Did you know the New York State Unified Court System offers an “Attorney Emeritus” status for those in good standing, who are at least 55 years old, with a minimum of 10 years experience? During a two-year period, these volunteers commit to provide 60 pro bono hours of civil legal assistance under the auspices of a qualified legal service provider. VLPCNY is proud to be a host site for AEP. Sign up HERE to express an interest in volunteering.
50 Hour Pro Bono Requirement: Opportunities for those seeking to complete the required 50 hours of pro bono work are available between academic semesters (January, May, August, and December). To express interest in completing your 50 hour pro bono requirement with VLPCNY, please submit a resume, cover letter, and writing sample to volunteers@vlpcny.org. Please include “50 Hours Pro Bono” in the subject line. Due to the high volume of applicants, only those being considered will be contacted.
Law Students: There are opportunities for law student volunteers to participate in all of our programming. VLPCNY provides academic stipends to interns during the summer and academic school year. Learn about our Access to Justice Fellowship HERE (applications accepted on a rolling basis). If you are a law student, please contact mjohn@vlpcny.org for more information on opportunities. Sign up HERE to express an interest in volunteering.
Paralegals/Other Professionals: Whether it's assisting with client intake, conducting legal research, providing referrals or screening cases, paralegals and other professionals play a critical role at VLPCNY. Sign up HERE to express an interest in volunteering.
Undergraduate Interns: VLPCNY offers a limited number of volunteer roles for undergraduate students interested in pursuing a law degree. Academic stipends may be available. Sign up HERE to express an interest in volunteering.