How are conflict checks processed in Ask-A-Lawyer programs?
Rule 6.5 of the Nevada Supreme Court Rules of Professional Conduct permits all lawyers to participate in counsel and advice clinics or Ask-A-Lawyer programs without running conflict checks so long as the lawyer is not aware of any conflicts with the individual(s) in which they are giving advice. The Rule enables these programs to serve a significantly greater number of pro se individuals than would be possible if running conflicts were necessary for every client.
Can I refer a potential client to Legal Aid Center?
Yes. Please refer potential applicants to Legal Aid Center’s website available at www.lacsn.org. In addition, you can provide them our main number, 386-1070, and instruct them to follow the prompts for the type of legal problem they have. Please DO NOT give a direct extension as this only slows down the process.
Can I refer a client I have screened and would like to help through the pro bono project?
Yes. Contact the Pro Bono Project at 386-1070 ext. 1422 or
I already do pro bono work in my practice, so why should I volunteer with the project?
If you’re doing pro bono work in your practice, you are to be commended. What the Pro Bono Project provides is an institutional way to mobilize the legal community to help a segment of the population that cannot help itself. We thoroughly screen our clients, so by taking cases through us, you are sure to be helping clients in need who have meritorious cases. Additionally, you are eligible for support and assistance through the Project, as well as awards and recognition.
What if I am not a member of the Nevada State Bar?
Attorneys who are not members of the Nevada State Bar but who are admitted and in good standing in another state may request certification through the Nevada Supreme Court’s Emeritus Attorney Pro Bono (EAPB) Program. The certification is also available to attorneys who have been admitted in Nevada or another state but have an inactive license. See Supreme Court Rule 49.2 or www.nvbar.org for further information or to apply.
What’s in it for me?
Besides having something to report on your annual mandatory reporting form, making yourself eligible for awards and recognition, and generally doing good and giving back to the community in which you live and work, you might actually feel what it is like to have a profound impact on the life of a person in need. You can learn a new area of law and obtain CLE credit for time spent on a pro bono matter.
SOLA & Process Service FAQ
What types of non-litigation pro bono opportunities are available to me?
There are several non-litigation opportunities available to government lawyers residing in Nevada. One of the most popular options is by participating in an Ask-A-Lawyer program. Legal Aid Center of Southern Nevada offers low-income individuals the opportunity to meet with a volunteer attorney (free of charge) and receive a brief 15 – 30 minute consultation. The time commitment required for the attorney is only two or three hours.
Ask-A-Lawyer opportunities are available during the day, evening and on selected Saturdays. They involve a number of substantive areas, including Family Law and Landlord/Tenant Law as well as projects serving various populations such as small business owners, veterans, homeless individuals, senior citizens, and more.
