Retired Attorney

Pro Bono Practice Program

The Pro Bono Practice Program (“PBP Program”), previously known as the Emeritus Attorney Pro Bono Program, is designed to take advantage of the legal skills, training and experience of attorneys taking a temporary or permanent break from the active practice of law, and offer them the opportunity to contribute their valuable legal expertise to assist low-income Californians. Eligible participants will receive a waiver of the active State Bar membership fee. They have access to free and reduced rates to attend MCLE programs sponsored by the State Bar.

To read more about the requirements of the Pro Bono Practice Program, click here. Completion of the Harriett Buhai Center’s New Volunteer Training and on-boarding process may be required for this program on a case-by-case basis. Click here to inquire.

Pro Bono Panel

Our Pro Bono Panel consists of volunteer attorneys with varying levels of experience who provide limited scope representation and/or full representation to clients. Volunteers become the client’s attorney of record, either for the whole case through Judgment or for a limited purpose (e.g., the initial RFO for temporary support and custody). Membership on the Pro Bono Panel is selective and at the discretion of the Harriett Buhai Center.

Pro Per Program

As our largest volunteer program, the Pro Per Program offers volunteers flexibility in both scheduling  and types of client appointments. The two appointment options are listed below.

  • RSVP: In this Remote Services Volunteer Program (RSVP), volunteers interview and provide initial advice to prospective clients in consultation with staff. COAS (Client Orientation and Assessment System) appointments are held over the phone and are on most Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and one or two Saturdays a month. Appointments are generally 2-4 hours long.
  • Individual Appointments (TEMPORARILY ON PAUSE DURING PANDEMIC): Volunteers prepare pleadings, declarations and a variety of other assistance and instruction to help individuals prepare for court. This may include individual advice, meetings, and interviews with clients. Individual appointments take place at the Center.

Volunteers schedule themselves based on their availability using the Center’s online volunteer calendar and scheduling system. Completion of the Harriett Buhai Center’s New Volunteer Training and on-boarding process is required for this program. Click here to inquire.