Dec. 2, 2009 – The State Bar Legal Assistance Committee seeks grant applications from individuals or organizations who are developing or expanding pro bono legal assistance projects in their communities. As part of the State Bar Pro Bono Initiative, grants of up to $5,000 are available; apply by Feb. 1.

According to State Bar pro bono coordinator Jeff Brown, "Volunteer lawyers are a big part of the delivery system for legal services to low-income Wisconsin residents. We are constantly looking for ways to support expansion of this important service by our members."

The State Bar Pro Bono Initiative is a statewide program to support, recognize, coordinate, and increase lawyers' volunteer legal efforts. In collaboration with the judiciary, legal services providers, and local bar organizations, the initiative works to eliminate barriers to effective public access to the civil justice system.

The State Bar's Pro Bono Initiative helps Wisconsin lawyers meet the challenge of addressing the unmet legal needs of low-income residents through a variety of programs and support, including the grant and the Just Take Two programs, by providing free LexisNexis^® services for pro bono cases, helping with out-of-pocket costs, providing free malpractice insurance for volunteers, and other benefits for volunteers.

Visit the Legal Assistance Committee webpage for more information about the grant program and to download an application.