Potential clients are screened by MCVLP staff to determine whether they qualify for our services. Clients are then matched with volunteer attorneys who will represent them on behalf of MCVLP. Civil cases covered include uncontested divorce, wills, power of attorney, adoption, guardianship, name change, child support modification, consumer issues, and bankruptcy. The MCVLP does not handle any criminal or fee-generating cases.

Even after a client is matched with a volunteer attorney, MCVLP’s staff periodically reviews the client’s case to ensure that the match is successful, to assess the progress of the case, and to record pro bono hours contributed by the volunteer attorney.

The MCVLP has resources available to assist volunteers with research, sample pleadings, and other case documents. The MCVLP also carries professional liability insurance on all volunteer attorneys who provide services to MCVLP’s clients.

Apart from casework, pro bono service for MCVLP volunteers may also involve assisting a client at a legal clinic, rendering legal counseling and advice to existing clients, answering a call or preparing letters on a client's behalf, serving as a mentor to a new MCVLP volunteer, or serving as faculty at a continuing legal education seminar. Attorneys interested in volunteering with MCVLP should contact the MCVLP, or see our Volunteer page for more details.