1L Pro Bono Project
"Through the 1L Pro Bono program, I had the opportunity to work with an attorney representing a DC neighborhood seeking an injunction to keep a historic landmark from becoming a bus depot. Even as a 1L, I found that I could make a real difference, providing needed research to support the attorney's work in the courtroom. I had a great opportunity to watch a talented professional in action with people who cared deeply watching on. The neighborhood got their injunction - observing real justice done by our legal system is worth leaving the classroom to see."
- Christopher Peterson, Class of 2015
The 1L Pro Bono Service Project is designed specifically for first-year students interested in doing law-related volunteer work, but who lack the time commitment required of a substantial internship or externship. These projects usually range from 5 hours per week to 5 hours over the course of the semester. Participating in the 1L Pro Bono Service Project is a great way to give back to the DC community, gain experience with basic legal skills, and accumulate hours towards the Pro Bono Pledge.
The organizations that participate primarily provide legal services to low-income individuals living in DC or the surrounding metropolitan area. Specific organizations with significant, ongoing relationships with the project are listed in local partners. Some of their practice areas include:
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Asylum/Immigration Child abuse and neglect Criminal or juvenile justice Consumer law |
Disability rights Domestic violence Environmental law Elder law |
Employment law Family law Housing law Tax law |
These organizations need students to assist with a wide variety of tasks, including: performing intakes and interviewing clients, investigating cases, filing court pleadings, accompanying clients to court, performing legal or policy research, evaluating court proceedings, and other tasks. Also, many organizations request students who speak a foreign language, so participating in a pro bono project can be a great way keep up your language skills!
To Participate: register for the Pro Bono Pledge, and look out for further instructions from OPICS at the beginning of each semester, when placements typically occur.
Feel free to stop by Room 212 anytime to speak with the Pro Bono Coordinator about the 1L Pro Bono Project or other pro bono-related questions.
