February 2014

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

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

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

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

PLI’s New Reception Area

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