I was delighted by the invitation to speak recently at one of my favorite events – the yearly gathering of New York’s Pro Bono Coordinator Network, held during the New York State Bar Annual Meeting in NYC. The meeting brings together pro bono professionals of all persuasions – from large urban legal services organizations and
February 2014
Funding Opportunities for Tech-Enabled Access to Justice Partnerships
The Legal Services Corporation (LSC) released its TIG Letter of Intent (LOI) invitations last week. This year the priorities are very focused and closely aligned with the Technology Summit Report of 2013.
This year the total amount of funds available to Legal Services grantees is $3.45 Million. There are two main categories: 1) innovation…
In South Carolina, LHI Increases Efficiency and Access to Justice in Child Support Cases
The Problem
In the weak recovery from the worst recession in nearly a century, many South Carolinians have found it increasingly difficult to make their child support payments and have sought modifications to reduce their burden. One study reported that 79% of non-custodial parents in South Carolina who are unable to pay court-mandated child support…
Tech Pilot in Bronx Family Court Dramatically Increases Court Efficiency
In Bronx Family Court, Pro Bono Net’s LawHelp Interactive forms are a central component of an innovative e-filing project that has dramatically increased the court’s efficiency. The new pilot project is a paradigmatic example of technology’s capacity to increase access to justice, streamline court processes, and create a better and friendlier litigant experience.
Traditionally, when…
New York State Announces Innovative Programs to Close the Justice Gap
In Tuesday’s State of the Judiciary Address, Chief Judge Jonathan Lippman highlighted the work of the Committee on Non-Lawyers and the Justice Gap (which includes Pro Bono Net’s Executive Director, Mark O’Brien) in his announcement, including pioneering new efforts that will better serve the unrepresented.
For example, in the Bronx and Brooklyn, Court Navigators…
Spring 2014 PLI Highlights!
As the New Year begins, we are highlighting some exciting Practising Law Institute (PLI) workshops and trainings of particular interest to pro bono, legal services, and nonprofit attorneys. As always, PLI’s 2014 program places a strong emphasis on the needs of pro bono attorneys, working to ensure…