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Opportunity to Make a Difference

Volunteers provide a valuable service to our community and extend the Legal Aid Society’s capacity to provide justice for all. We seek help from law firms, individual attorneys, law students, law school graduates who are not yet attorneys, retired attorneys and paralegals. The legal issues of our clients are diverse, so we can refer cases that fit your experience and desire.

Private Attorney Involvement Program (PAI)
A Rewarding and Fulfilling Journey

Pro bono volunteers allow the opportunity for justice for all, especially for those who come to the Legal Aid Society for help.

The need for legal services far outweighs attorney resources. Usually, we—YOU—are the only chance at ensuring our clients’ legal interests are protected and they receive a fair and just outcome—something everyone deserves. The PAI program facilitates this.

How does the referral process work?

Our staff initially reviews the client’s legal issue and decides if it warrants a referral. If it does, we contact you: first, to make sure you are available; second, to make sure you are interested in the legal issue. If you agree to take a case, we will send you a referral letter and all pertinent documents. The client will call your office and arrange to meet with you.

Pro Bono Opportunities

One-on-one appointments with income-eligible clients regarding civil law issues

Attorneys offer limited representation to a client in their first appearance at Albany City Court

Represent clients in filing for Chapter 7 Bankruptcy

Links urban volunteers with rural clients via video consultations with document assembly

Various work including acting on the behalf of a client to lift or modify a wage garnishment, helping to free a frozen bank account, or representing a client in a debt collection matter

Landlord / Tenant matters, SSD/SSI Benefits, Unemployment

Possibly, representing the client in court or at administrative hearings

Assist clients in classroom setting to complete pleadings, allowing them to obtain a divorce

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