Volunteer Lawyer for the Day Program - Consumer Debt

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About the Volunteer Lawyer for the Day Program (Consumer Debt)

The Civil Court of the City of New York operates the Volunteer Lawyer for the Day (VLFD) Consumer Debt Program, which is designed to assist unrepresented Consumer Debtors appearing in Civil Court. The VLFD program is an unbundled legal services program where the representation begins and ends the same day.

There are no client calls, filing deadlines, motion practice or responsibilities beyond the allotted day, which is scheduled in advance at your convenience.

If you are an attorney interested in the VLFD program, learn more about how it works and how you can earn free CLE credits for your service.
If you are a participant in the program, view calendars, schedule your services or submit a volunteer service affirmation.

For more information, contact: Laurie B. Milder, Esq., Special Counsel, NYS Courts Access to Justice Program at 646-386-5850 or email [email protected].

Prospective Volunteer Attorneys

The Volunteer Lawyer for the Day (VLFD) Program offers unrepresented litigants in Consumer Debt proceedings the opportunity to have lawyers represent them during their appearance in the Civil Court. The program is currently operating in the Civil Courts of New York, Kings, Queens, Bronx, and Richmond Counties. Participating lawyers provide unrepresented litigants with limited scope representation.

By volunteering, lawyers help some of the thousands of unrepresented Consumer Debtors in financial distress. Volunteer lawyers can find out what it is like to be a courtroom lawyer, even if they do not have litigation experience. Volunteer lawyers can develop client interviewing and courtroom skills.

How it Works

In the VLFD Program, the volunteer lawyer and the client meet the morning of the court appearance and sign a retainer agreement for just that day's appearance. The lawyer files a Limited Notice of Appearance with the Court. The lawyer then appears on the litigant's behalf for the day. Volunteer lawyers are supervised by a knowledgeable attorney program coordinator who reviews cases, discusses strategy and approves stipulations. The representation is complete at the end of the day, whether the case is resolved or not.

Training and CLE Credits

The VLFD Program offers volunteer lawyers free CLE, which includes topics covering ethics and professionalism and areas of professional practice. The subjects of the CLE seminar are:

Consumer Debt Law
The Court process and key motions
Substantive Defenses
Ethics

Lawyers must complete the seminar to participate in the VLFD Program. Training sessions take place throughout the year. DVD re-plays are available to both law firms and solo practitioners upon request.

Volunteer Commitment

In exchange for CLE credit, volunteers agree to provide two mornings of volunteer service in the Civil Court within six (6) months of training. Experienced attorneys may received additional CLE credits for their pro bono service. The Court provides indemnification for all volunteers.

Participating Volunteer Attorneys

Thank you for participating in the Volunteer Lawyer for the Day Program and showing your commitment to making a difference in the lives of many New Yorkers. The donation of your time and expertise is the heart of this program, and your service is greatly appreciated. Please see links below to schedule time to volunteer and submit the Affirmation of Completion of Volunteer Service.

Schedule Time to Volunteer

Please call 646-386-5425 or email [email protected] the dates and times that you wish to volunteer. After your request is received, a confirmation will be sent to your email address.

Submit Affirmation

When you complete your service, please submit the Affirmation of Completion of Volunteer Service. If you are having trouble using the on-line form, you can dial 646-386-5425 or email [email protected].