VOLUNTEER

VOLUNTEER

VOLUNTEER

Attorneys

Attorneys can donate their legal expertise by providing advice at a legal clinic or pro bono representation to an SDVLP client. Our case list offers a wide range of litigation and transactional opportunities.

Law Students

SDVLP offers law students an opportunity to gain practical legal skills while helping San Diego County’s low-income community. Please note that space is limited for in-office volunteers.

Other Volunteers

Other volunteers can assist low-income residents with their legal issues by supporting our staff and volunteer attorneys at legal clinics and in pro bono matters. SDVLP has a particular need for Spanish speakers.

You Can Help

SDVLP relies upon volunteers like you. Whether you are a law firm, lawyer, law student or paralegal, you have the ability to change a life. Any amount of time you can give makes a difference. Whether you volunteer at a weekly clinic or assist with a case whenever you’re available, your efforts WILL impact people’s lives. Many lawyers say that volunteering is the most satisfying aspect of their careers.

SDVLP is dedicated to providing legal services to indigent San Diego County residents who otherwise are unable to afford or access assistance. SDVLP screens all cases for merit and client financial eligibility. Malpractice coverage, materials, forms, pleadings and training (as needed) are provided to volunteers. Time commitments vary according to each case. SDVLP will accommodate your schedule and your preferences.

Although SDVLP serves over 5,000 underprivileged clients annually, this number represents only a fraction of the men, women and children who need legal help. The majority of people in need still go unassisted. Every year, hundreds of attorneys and law students who volunteer through SDVLP give the generous gift of time, service, and expertise to thousands of San Diegans who would not otherwise have access to justice.

Whether you’re an attorney, law school student, or paralegal, submit a volunteer registration form, or check out our FAQs for more information about how you can help.

VOLUNTEER
SPOTLIGHT

VOLUNTEER
SPOTLIGHT

“I volunteer because I believe in the important work SDVLP does — providing equal access to justice without regard to economic status. I find it uplifting to see the direct effect my contribution makes on individual lives, and it is always a great pleasure working with SDVLP.”
Ashleigh Angeletti, DLA PIPER LLP (USA)

“SDVLP provides access to justice that many of their clients otherwise would never have. I volunteer because I care about the wellbeing of the vulnerable and disadvantaged in our community. SDVLP allows me to put my caring into action.”

Tanisha Bostwick, BOSTICK LEGAL

“A restraining order client had pictures of the abuse she sustained. This put the abuse into vivid perspective. Knowing that we actually had the legal means to protect this woman made me feel empowered.”

Nick Cohenmeyer, ATTORNEY AT LAW

“What surprised me about volunteering was the dedication and positive energy of the SDVLP attorneys and staff. It was truly inspiring how SDVLP works to ensure that justice and fairness are equally accessible by all.”

Kadmiel Perez, FOLEY & LARDNER

“My advice for anyone thinking about volunteering with SDVLP is DO IT! Aside from the obvious benefit of being able to provide such needed legal services to the community, to do so through SDVLP is so rewarding. The support of the organization has been amazing, from the staff attorneys to attorney mentors to staff that come to court to help translate. It is really nice to work with such professionals, and to meet other like-minded attorneys who share my passion for pro bono work.”

Caron L. Woodward, WOODWARD LAW

“It is my honor to help others. In my life, I am personally familiar with hardship and adversity. I believe the responsibility of a lawyer must include improving people’s quality of life; especially individuals who cannot afford a lawyer. It is a privilege for me to stand up for those who cannot stand up for themselves.”

Brad Nakase, NAKASE LAW FIRM

“I chose to volunteer with SDVLP because I became a lawyer with the intention to give back to my community and give a voice to people in need. I am truly passionate about helping others and will continue supporting life changing programs such as SDVLP.”

Carolina Ruvalcaba ESQ.