Client Services

Clients who meet income guidelines are eligible to receive  legal assistance through a variety of programs offered by Volunteer Legal, including legal clinics, pro bono referrals, and taxpayer clinics.

Neighborhood Legal Clinics

With few exceptions, Volunteer Legal clients must first go through a legal advice and referral clinic. Neighborhood Legal Clinic participants meet one-on-one with a volunteer attorney, usually for a half hour session. In most cases, the information and advice provided by the attorney enable the client to proceed pro se. The clinic attorney may refer the client to other Volunteer Legal services, including the Pro Bono Referral Program.

Neighborhood Legal Clinics are held on Oahu (Honolulu, Waipahu, Waimanalo) and the neighbor islands (Kona, Hilo, Wailuku).

Virtual Clinics

Volunteer attorneys consult with clients by telephone at a time that is mutually convenient. As with the Neighborhood Legal Clinic, the attorney provides information, advice, and referrals. Telephone consultations are used when the client has an imminent deadline or court appearance.

Pro Bono Referral Program

Volunteer Legal’s Pro Bono Referral Program attempts to secure a pro bono attorney for clients who are unable to represent themselves. The scope of representation can range from drafting a simple document to handling a complex family law matter. Attorneys who sign up for the Pro Bono Referral Program can designate the types of cases they are willing to take.

Mentor Panels

Mentor panels consist of volunteer attorneys with expertise in specific areas of law. Mentors are available to consult with new or transitioning attorneys who have active pro bono cases through Volunteer Legal. Mentor attorneys have no direct contact or relationship with the client.

Self-Help Workshops

Volunteer attorneys conduct Pro Se Uncontested Divorce and Bankruptcy Workshops offered by Volunteer Legal. Volunteer Legal also sponsors workshops on various legal topics at transitional shelters and other locations.

Case Screening

Attorneys with subject matter expertise review case files and advise Volunteer Legal staff on pro bono placement.

Low-Income Taxpayer Clinic

Volunteer Legals’ Low-Income Taxpayer Clinic assists low-income taxpayers who have a controversy with the Internal Revenue Service or need help obtaining relief from a tax obligation. Volunteer attorneys represent the taxpayer in their dealings with the IRS and appear in Tax Court on behalf of the taxpayer.

Training and Resource Development

Attorneys share their expertise by developing manuals and resource material or conducting subject matter workshops for Volunteer Legal staff and volunteer attorneys.