We are currently seeking private attorneys to provide pro bono representation and/or consultation for the following statewide projects. The cases have a wide geographic distribution and the list of areas we have a need in is growing.
For more information or to sign up, please contact Anu Gurnani at 732-572-9100, x8308.
Divorce/Matrimonial Practice
There is a desperate need for pro bono representation of low-income individuals who have been served with divorce papers or are seeking to file divorce in New Jersey. Countless individuals go unrepresented each year in matrimonial hearings because they cannot afford the services of a private attorney. Lack of representation translates into unequal access to justice, and when matters of visitation, custody, support, and equitable distribution are concerned, this can have devastating consequences for pro se litigants.
Domestic Violence
Represent low-income survivors of domestic violence seeking Final Restraining Orders (FROs) for protection from abusive partners.
Immigration
Represent low-income immigrants who are seeking asylum, naturalization, cancellation of removal, and permanent residence under the Violence Against Women’s Act for survivors of domestic violence.
Bankruptcy
Represent low-income individuals in bankruptcy court who have fallen behind on debts or become disabled.
Consumer Protection and Anti-Predatory Lending
Represent low-income persons with cases involving consumer debts; auto deficiency defenses; auto sales; garnishments and levies; student loans; and homeowners who face the loss of their homes or equity in their homes as a result of abusive lending practices.
Representation of Low-Income Not for Profit Corporations / Community Economic Development
Community-based economic and housing development projects are becoming an ever more important avenue for low-income people attempting to escape from poverty. With increasing frequency, community groups require the aid of attorneys skilled in transactional, tax and related aspects of law as they struggle to create jobs and preserve or build affordable housing, provide child care, and undertake other kinds of development efforts.
Education
Represent low-income families in navigating the educational system and ensuring that their children’s educational needs are being met in the areas of school residency, homeless rights, discipline and truancy matters, special education and early intervention.
Employment / Unemployment
Represent low-income individuals in cases involving wage and hour issues, retaliation, worker health and safety, Limited English Proficiency, Americans with Disabilities Act, leave and accommodation, barriers to employment, workforce development, consumer law violations in employment context, UI/TDI/WC, discrimination, undocumented worker exploitation, human trafficking and civil rights cases.
Taxes
Represent low-income clients in IRS repayment or underpayment cases. Attorneys with expertise in tax matters are also needed to provide consultation to Legal Services attorneys regarding tax consequences of settlements.
Wills, Estates and Trusts
Represent low-income clients in drafting of wills, trusts (particularly special needs trusts), advance health directives, living wills, and durable power of attorneys. In some cases, adult guardianships may be necessary.
Statewide Legal Hotline (1-888-LSNJ-LAW)
We are in the process of developing an infrastructure to enable pro bono attorneys, who do not wish to become involved in cases that require litigation and court appearances, to participate in our statewide hotline. By calling a toll free hotline, low-income New Jersey residents reach specialists who screen for eligibility and assess the applicant's case. We are currently seeking attorneys with expertise in real property, wills, estates, trusts, taxes, and the Department of Motor Vehicles to do callbacks in matters where telephone advice may resolve or begin to address the issues involved.