“I just don’t feel confident about this area of law.”
Attorneys interested in assisting pro bono clients are often heard saying these words.
Helping a low-income person with a legal matter may require stepping into an area outside of an attorney’s comfort zone.
It’s important to note, however, there are many support resources in place for willing pro bono attorneys: CLE webinars on the topic, access to Westlaw, professional liability insurance coverage and expert resources.
Sometimes, it’s access to an expert resource attorney that makes the difference in whether the new pro bono attorney accepts the case.
Sometimes, it’s just knowing that someone is there to field substantive questions, review a petition or advise on what to expect at the hearing that offers assurance to the new pro bono attorney.
Expert resource attorneys choose their preferred method of communicating with the pro bono attorney: phone, email or in person. Some do all three.
The expert isn’t asked to teach the new pro bono attorney how to handle the case from start to finish. As attorneys, we’re taught to be problem-solvers and to research issues with which we’re unfamiliar.
Rather, the expert resource provides confirmation and feedback. He or she may share document templates or insights on possible case strategies.
Some new pro bono attorneys describe their expert resources as a “safety net,” but not as someone who defines every step of the case.
These attorneys have served as expert resources for pro bono attorneys and sometimes for legal services staff attorneys. Their willingness to serve as a sounding board and guide has many times been the reason a client gets the help he/she needs.
Sincere appreciation is extended to David Barksdale, Becky Barlow, Faye Bennett, Erik Berger, Laura Boeckman, Marla Buchanan, Rebecca Caballero, Jean Coker, Susannah Collins, Ham Cooke, Bruce Duggar, Jessica Dumas, Hollyn Foster, Imani Boykin, Bill Gallogly, Leslie Goller, Aaron Irving, Ed Jackson, Preston Oughton, Jan McCormick, Rusty Mead, Katherine Naugle, Krista Parry, Beverly Pasco, Ned Price, Kitty Robbie and Rick Stockton.
Attorneys interested in serving as an expert resource for another pro bono attorney are encouraged to contact Kathy Para, Chair, The JBA Pro Bono Committee, [email protected].