How It Works

• Orientation
  When you express an interest, Judge Edward M. Ginsburg, retired judge of the Middlesex Probate and Family Court will contact you to discuss the initiative, answer your questions and identify your particular interests.
  
  
• Training
  For Those New to Family Law: If you are new to family law practice, you will be invited to an introductory training that provides a general overview, complete with sample pleadings, of divorce law and procedure. The trainers are staff attorneys of the Volunteer Lawyers Project (VLP) of the Boston Bar Association.
  
  For All Senior Partners: You are invited to free monthly lunchtime seminars with Judge Ginsburg and other Senior Partners for Justice, hosted by Massachusetts Continuing Legal Education, Inc., (MCLE). These sessions immerse you in the practical aspects of handling family law cases and the Rules requirements. Topics include: the division and valuation of marital assets; tax implications of divorce; the psychological impact of the dissolution of marriage upon young children; real estate issues for divorcing clients; trial techniques for divorce cases; current legal issues.
  
  
• Written Materials
  You receive free written materials, sample forms, practice-oriented articles and checklists to help you become familiar with family law issues facing pro se clients today. The materials also bring you current with significant trends and practices. During the course of your volunteer work, you are sent periodic updates.
  
  
• Mentoring
  Staff at the VLP, together with seasoned family law Senior Partners, provide ongoing telephone mentoring based on your own needs. Senior Partners provides a support network of colleagues who are available to consult on the best course of action, and to answer any questions the Senior Partner may have regarding practical aspects of representing indigent clients.
  
  
• Case Screening and Referral
  The Volunteer Lawyers Project (VLP), a program with 30 years' experience in the pro bono effort, provides the infrastructure for Senior Partners. Staff at VLP screen clients for eligibility and assess cases for legal merit and relative degree of complexity. They refer cases to participating attorneys, matching the case with the attorney's experience level and stated preferences.
  
  
• Other Support
  • Professional liability insurance is provided through VLP; client
    meeting space, library access for research and office support is
    furnished; and law student interns are available to assist as needed.
    
    
  • VLP's Client Trust Fund, in compliance with all IOLTA
    requirements, is available when needed by Senior Partners.
    
    
  • Senior Partners who handle only VLP cases and are otherwise retired
    from the active practice of law may waive BBO dues.
• Minimum Commitment
  None. You may wish to accept only one case or establish a caseload that equals a full-time job. It is your choice.