Volunteer Attorney Support

Client's FAQ

How do I apply for services?

You must qualify for services with Alaska Legal Services Corporation in order to qualify for the pro bono program. In order to apply for services, you need to contact your nearest ALSC office and go through their screening process.

ALSC staff tells me that there is a conflict of interest and they cannot help me. Can I obtain assistance through the pro bono program?

No, the same policies and procedures apply to the pro bono program.

What type of cases do you handle?

It varies according to the policies of your nearest ALSC office. Each office has its own set of case acceptance priorities. The pro bono program also has its own priority guidelines due to our limited resources and funding.

Can I apply for services directly with the pro bono program instead of applying through ALSC?

No, the program is not staffed to handle direct requests for legal assistance.

What type of assistance will I receive from the pro bono program if I qualify for services and an ALSC office refers my case?

Depending on the type of referral the ALSC office made, the pro bono program will try to find a volunteer attorney to represent you or give you a one-time free consultation.

I am over income, or simply do not qualify for services. However, I can’t afford an attorney. What can I do?

For certain type of cases we offer a variety of self-help legal clinics throughout Alaska. These clinics have been designed to help clients represent themselves in court or provide clients with information concerning certain areas of the law. These clinics are for educational purposes only. You should always seek the help of an attorney when dealing with legal issues.

How long does it takes for the pro bono program to select an attorney to represent me?

We cannot guarantee case placement with pro bono attorneys. The pro bono program enlists hundreds of volunteers statewide, but that is no guarantee that one will accept your case. It is impossible to determine how long it will take to place your case.

Is this a free service?

You will not be charged for the attorney’s time. However, depending on the program’s funding, you might be required to pay for certain expenses (such as filing fees), but never for the time the pro bono attorney has generously agreed to donate on your behalf.

What are my responsibilities once my case has been placed?

Clients are required to keep their attorney and the pro bono program informed of any changes to their personal information and income level. Additional information may be required from time to time. Clients should be respectful of the attorney’s time and speak only of the matters their attorneys have agreed to represent them on.

What if I don’t like the outcome on my case? Can I appeal?

The outcome on your case is beyond our control. Appeals need to have prior approval from this office. However, they are costly and time consuming. We generally do not authorize appeals unless there are very special circumstances and your pro bono attorney makes the request for an appeal.