Panel Benefits

Training

VLP offers a regular series of training programs in the fundamentals of Landlord/Tenant Law, Family Law, Supplemental Security Income, SSI (the social security disability program), and Unemployment Law.  From time to time, special programs are also offered such as handling complex custody cases, Chapter 7 and 13 bankruptcies.

Massachusetts Continuing Legal Education provides VLP with a limited number of vouchers allowing admission to any one of their programs for $15.00. These vouchers are made available to VLP panel members who have handled cases. They can be used for any program without regard to its relevance to VLP work. MCLE in conjunction with the Massachusetts legal services and pro bono programs also offers six sessions annually on matters related to VLP client needs. Admission to such programs is also $15.00 each.

VLP panel members are kept apprised of training opportunities through VLP's quarterly newsletter as well as through postings on this website.

Click here to view our Current Training Schedule

Mentoring

VLP provides ongoing mentoring to pro bono panel members primarily through VLP's staff attorneys who have a combined expertise in Social Security Disability (SSI), bankruptcy, consumer, eviction defense, family law, and unemployment. For areas outside VLP's expertise, VLP brokers assistance through other public interest programs and/or members of the private bar practicing in the relevant subject area.

Pro bono panel members seeking mentoring assistance may simply call VLP and ask to speak to Lynn Girton, VLP's Chief Counsel. Attorney Girton will either assist the caller herself or make an appropriate referral.

Office Space

For volunteer attorneys who do not have easily accessible offices, VLP provides small interview rooms, which accommodate up to four people comfortably for meetings with VLP clients. In addition, VLP makes available a conference room for depositions or negotiation sessions involving VLP referred cases. In all instances, space should be reserved by calling VLP at 423-0648. Please provide the receptionist with your name, the client's name the room size needed, the date and time of the appointment, the approximate length of time required, and a number at which you can be reached should a problem arise.

CPCS Continuing Education Credits Now Available Through VLP

Stan Goldman, Director of Mental Health Litigation for the Committee for Public Counsel Services ("CPCS"), will allow attorneys certified to hear mental health cases to meet part of their continuing education requirements by taking VLP cases pro bono. From 3 to 5 credits will be awarded for each case taken. (Cases with an identified mental health component will qualify for the 5 credits.) VLP trainings, mentoring, malpractice insurance, and other support will be available to participating attorneys. Mental Health Attorneys - look for a letter from Stan for more details.

Professional Liability Insurance

VLP provides primary professional liability insurance coverage for panel attorneys handling cases referred through VLP. Primary coverage ensures that panel members do not have to rely on their own malpractice coverage when handling VLP cases.