Exploring Legal Volunteer Opportunities

With the right training and support, legal volunteer opportunities are not just for lawyers. And they can be some of the most rewarding experiences of your life. Legal volunteering includes many possibilities. From working with the public to volunteering behind-the-scenes, some opportunities don’t need a background in law. Even if you want to try your hand in a court room, there are programs that provide resources and support. We’ve compiled a general overview of some options, with information on how to make each opportunity fit your skills and interests.

Legal volunteers supporting public interest organizations are leveling the playing field for people that may otherwise not have access to justice. When people with limited income in our communities seek help with civil legal problems such as civil rights, family law, domestic violence, bankruptcy, housing, employment, and consumer problems, they often cannot afford private legal counsel. Many people lack basic legal information and understanding, so they can’t help themselves. Quality legal assistance is often life-changing, and is sometimes a necessity for survival.

Racial and economic inequalities fuel a justice gap in our legal system, that leaves many of the most vulnerable in our communities to be victimized, bullied and oppressed by those who prey upon them. These inequalities are rooted in prejudice, available resources and access to education. Having a good education is arguably more important now than ever. An educated society elevates awareness, and creates more opportunities of involvement.

There are legal volunteer opportunities available for anyone interested in making a difference, which will help create an equitable world. Through pro bono legal work, lawyers and legal professionals are helping low-income individuals and families, non-profit groups, and communities in need navigate the courts and administrative processes.

Pro bono legal work occurs primarily in two ways: Working alongside a lawyer or a team of lawyers is a great way to learn first-hand about the practice of law in a fully supported environment. You are also building a strong network for your future and doing something impactful. Volunteer programs offered by legal aid organizations, pro bono programs and other legal service providers are extremely valuable to the communities they support. For this reason, many legal organizations are eager to help you find the right volunteer opportunity to match your skills and time available.

There are a wide variety of legal volunteer opportunities available in your community. Volunteer roles vary from supporting clients at the front desk to teaching a legal education workshop and everything in between. Legal volunteering roles are available at courts, law firms, non-profits and government agencies. Volunteer roles may include reception, interpreter, assistant, research, advisor, counsel, investigator, outreach and education, hotline, court watcher, social media, and capacity building.