Volunteer Lawyers Project

For over 25 years, the Volunteer Lawyers Project has worked to make "justice for all" a reality in Maine. The VLP depends on volunteers to help transform justice from an ideal to a reality for many low-income Mainers. Community members and students are responsible for the initial contact and serve as the vital link to program services. Legal experience is not necessary, but communication skills are a must. Immediate supervision provided on every call and client contact. Training provided on interviewing techniques, methods of determining eligibility, various areas of law, and how to provide appropriate information and assistance. Reading materials and reference manuals provided for quick and easy use, as well as thorough question pages for use during interview.

Description:
Legal services, including representation, are often difficult for low-income people to acquire because of their limited income. The VLP uses a telephone intake system to maximize statewide availability. Community and student volunteers are responsible for answering the calls and interviewing the callers regarding their legal concerns. Legal supervision and direction are provided to each volunteer with every call. The primary focus is on family law,bankruptcy,foreclosure, disability, consumer debt and unemployment matters. The variety of services available include provision of self-help written materials, referrals to a variety of appropriate agencies, to our own Family Law Helpline and Courthouse Assistance Projects for self-help assistance and to attorneys for free or low-cost representation.

History:
The VLP, administratively run by Pine Tree Legal Assistance, began operation in 1983. It has relied extensively on volunteer efforts, with a small paid staff to insure the operational running of the program. The Volunteer Lawyers Project is nationally recognized as a leader in the delivery of pro bono (free or low-cost) services.

Contact person: Lin Martin-Hunt, Volunteer Coordinator, (phone), (email)

Main office number: (207) 774-4518
Office fax number: 1-207-828-2300

Address:

P.O. Box 547 88 Federal St. Portland, ME 04112

Web Site: http://www.vlp.org

Directions:

From Rt. 295, take Franklin St. Arterial Exit. At third light, take left onto Congress St. At second light, take right onto India St and then take first right onto Federal St. We are located on the left after the. . . (more) For maps or information, please see http://www.portlandmaine.worldweb.com/Transportation/PublicTransit

Miscellaneous Information

The agency places volunteers in these categories:
	Adults

Last updated on October 27, 2009