What Does “Pro Bono” MEan?

Pro bono legal work is representation or advice that is given for free by an attorney to a client. The phrase comes from the Latin pro bono publico, which translates to “for the public good.” Pro bono is most often associated with legal work but can be used for any skilled volunteer work.

HOW DO I APPLY?

Applications for our services are processed through our partner Indiana Legal Services. Please call their intake line at 844-243-8570 to apply for legal services - you will have the chance to qualify for assistance from both our organization and Indiana Legal Services.

What areas do you serve?

We serve clients in the counties of St. Joseph, Elkhart, LaPorte, Starke, Marshall, and Kosciusko.

WHAT HAPPENS WHEN MY CASE IS REFERRED TO AN ATTORNEY?

If an attorney agrees to consider your matter, the VLN will contact you and give you the attorney’s name and contact information. You must contact the volunteer attorney within 10 days of receiving the letter and identify yourself as a VLN client. If you fail to contact the attorney in a timely manner, your case will be closed.

Referral to an attorney does not mean that you have been accepted as a client. If the attorney determines that he or she cannot continue with your matter after reviewing all the facts, or that your matter lacks merit, he or she may refer you back to the VLN or close your matter and report the reason to the VLN. If an attorney states your matter lacks merit, you will not be referred to another attorney. If an attorney withdraws for other reasons, the VLN will make every effort to find you another attorney.