Hibbler Federal Court Help Desk (William J. Hibbler Memorial Pro Se Assistance Program): Volunteer attorneys assist pro se litigants in federal lawsuits by reviewing documents, providing guidance on the discovery process, and assisting them through all phases of litigation. Volunteer attorneys provide advice on the federal court process and procedure, not on the substantive legal issues in the client’s case. Malpractice insurance is provided through the program’s legal aid partner, Legal Aid Chicago.
All counseling is conducted via telephone or Zoom (links and log-in provided by Legal Aid Chicago). Volunteers sign up for shifts in advance and counsel clients who sign up for appointments. Legal Aid Chicago staff facilitate the exchange of documents via email and other means to clients.
- Time Commitment: One 3-hour shift per month. Volunteers indicate availability via Sign-Up Genius.
- Training & Benefits: New volunteers observe two shifts of appointments by an experienced volunteer. Volunteers receive ongoing mentoring and support from an experienced staff attorney. Volunteering at the Hibbler Pro Se Advice Desk fulfills the Northern District of Illinois’ Pro Bono Participation Requirement
- Additional Qualifications: Volunteers must have at least 3 years of federal court experience; experience in employment discrimination law is helpful, but not required.
- Contact: To volunteer or learn more, email volunteer@legalaidchicago.org or visit www.legalaidchicago.org and submit a volunteer interest form.