Fifty-Hour Pro Bono Requirement - Part Time

Job Description

Job Description

50 Hour Pro Bono Requirement - Part Time

The Erie County Bar Association Volunteer Lawyers Project (VLP) is accepting applications from individuals seeking to fulfill the 50-hour pro bono service requirement for admission to the New York State Bar. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. Availability is based on our current need and capacity.

Pursuant to Rule 520.16 of the Rules of the Court of Appeals, applicants who successfully pass the bar examination in New York State must demonstrate that they have performed 50 hours of qualifying pro bono service before applying for admission to practice. The Requirement need not be fulfilled before a law student applies to take the New York bar examination; rather, the 50 hours must be completed before filing an application for admission.

About VLP

VLP is a mixed-model civil legal services program that coordinates direct representation by pro bono attorneys and by our staff attorneys in our two locations: Buffalo and Batavia, NY. The Buffalo office handles a wide variety of civil legal services, with a focus on involving pro bono lawyers in the delivery of our services to clients. The Batavia office provides immigration representation to individuals detained in the Federal Detention Facility in Batavia, NY.

Duties and Responsibilities:

VLP provides legal assistance through a variety of practice areas, projects, and service units. 50-Hour Volunteers may be assigned to different programs based on organizational needs, the applicant's interests and experience, and the needs of the clients served.

Responsibilities will vary by assignment but may include:

• Conducting legal research;
• Drafting pleadings, motions, correspondence, and other legal documents;
• Interviewing and communicating with clients;
• Assisting with intake and case assessment;
• Preparing cases for litigation or administrative proceedings;
• Participating in clinics, outreach events, and other legal services initiatives;
• Maintaining case files;
• Performing other duties in support of the VLP's mission to provide high-quality civil legal services to individuals with limited means.

VLP is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes all to apply. Employer recruits without regard to age, race, color, creed, religion, national origin, immigration or citizenship status, pregnancy-related condition, predisposing genetic characteristics, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital and familial status, domestic violence victim status, disability, military status, or protected veteran status.

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