Prior to the client interview trained student advisers will take details of the case by Zoom or telephone. These details are then provided to volunteer lawyers prior to the client interview to allow time to prepare. A group of students will be present during the client interview to assist the volunteer lawyer. Written advice is not provided to clients and the clinic is unable to consider documents or provide ongoing casework support. Student Advisers draft an attendance note which is sent within a week of the client interview for approval. Student Advisers also provide general referral information to clients following the interview to assist them in their next steps where necessary.
What are you looking for volunteers to help with?
Volunteer lawyers are a key and valued part of the Legal Advice Centre, by supervising University of Law students the clinic is able to offer many clients initial legal advice each year. ULLAC are particularly looking for support from employment and family lawyers.
What will the time commitment be?
The time commitment is as much or as little as your schedule allows. Some clinic volunteers commit fortnightly, some monthly. Volunteers will be sent available dates and asked to sign up for as many appointment slots as is convenient.
What will volunteers get out of this?
Volunteers will be supported by trained law students. Student Advisers are trained to triage clients and produce case summaries that are sent to volunteers prior to the client interview. Student Advisers are also present at the advice sessions and explain to the client how the service works and draft an attendance note, which is sent for the volunteer solicitor’s approval within a week of the client interview taking place.
Volunteers will get to see clients with a variety of cases and work with students who are keen to enter the legal profession. Giving back to the community is a rewarding experience and working with law students can be fun and interesting. Your pro bono work will make a big difference.
Person specification - what type of volunteers are you looking for?
The clinic is looking for experienced and committed volunteer lawyers who would usually have a minimum of 2-3 years PQE, specialising in either employment or family law.
Application process - is there any information you would like applicants to provide?
For further information and to arrange a virtual meeting please kindly send an email, setting out your relevant experience and availability, to Sally Gill, the Pro Bono Coordinator for London campuses (including Norwich), sally.gill@law.ac.uk