GET TRAINED TO VOLUNTEER WITH VLJ
Volunteer Lawyers for Justice (VLJ) regularly hosts high-quality legal trainings for attorneys and non-attorney professionals. Each training provides substantive information on one of the legal topics covered by VLJ’s robust pro bono programming and prepares volunteers for their pro bono experience and how to best assist our clients.
In addition, to live and virtual trainings, we produce top-quality written materials that are designed to support our volunteers throughout their volunteer experience. Previous training materials (video and written) are also made available to attorneys who are registered as a VLJ volunteer.
VLJ is an accredited CLE provider in NJ and only provides NJ CLE certificates. For more information about transferring NJ CLE credits to other states, refer to the non-NJ states’ approved jurisdiction list and/or policy. More information regarding transfering NJ CLE credits to NY license requirements HERE.
Note, if you work for another social service agency and would like to attend one of VLJ’s CLEs, please email vlj@vljnj.org, with “CLE training - TRAINING NAME” in the subject line, and include 1) the name of the 501 organization you work for, 2) your phone #, and 3) your bar # so we can waive the fee.
If you are a licensed attorney and experiencing financial hardship, please review VLJ’s CLE Financial Hardship Policy, HERE.
*NOTE: CLE fees are waived for attorneys who agree to represent one VLJ pro bono client (one per course you attend) in the area of law covered by the training, within the following year. Indicate your volunteer interest upon registration and no payment is required.
upcoming trainings
Have questions about volunteering with VLJ? Email Emerald Sheay at esheay@vljnj.org.
VLJ 101 & The Ethical Pro Bono Volunteer CLE
Tuesday, September 23
3:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Format: Zoom webinar
Cost: Free
This free CLE program will provide an overview of how attorneys can become involved in promoting access to justice with Volunteer Lawyers for Justice (VLJ) through a variety of pro bono opportunities, including limited-scope legal clinics and full representation. Additionally, the program will cover relevant NJ court rules, ethics opinions, and rules of professional conduct related to pro bono practice and poverty law.
Whether you are looking to give back in an area of law you already practice, or develop new skills by exploring other practice areas, there is a pro bono opportunity right for you!
CLE Credit: 1.1 NJ (incl. ethics)
Monday, September 29
3:30 PM - 5:00 PM
Format: Zoom webinar
Cost: Free
Volunteer Lawyers for Justice (VLJ) presents this 90-minute CLE for a practical training on representing young people who are eligible for Special Immigrant Juvenile Status (“SIJS”). Presenters from VLJ and the New Jersey Consortium for Immigrant Children will provide an overview of SIJS, including its history and eligibility requirements.
The session will include a review of the three-step process for obtaining lawful permanent residence through SIJS. Attendees will learn how to successfully obtain a SIJS findings order in Family Court, and how to navigate U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. The CLE will also provide an update on the changes to SIJS and advice on best practices for advocating for immigrant children. At the conclusion of the training, volunteers may choose to accept a SIJS matter for pro bono representation through VLJ.
CLE Credit: 1.7 NJ
Monday, October 20
3:30 PM - 5:00 PM
Format: Zoom webinar
Cost: Free
Volunteer Lawyers for Justice presents this 90-minute CLE program to discuss the development and sustainability of pro bono practices within law firms and corporate legal departments. Panelists from a range of backgrounds—including law firms, corporate legal teams, and pro bono organizations—will share insights on creating and maintaining impactful pro bono programs.
The session will include a review of the applicable court rules and ethical considerations governing pro bono work, followed by a practical panel discussion focused on how to implement or enhance pro bono culture within your own firm or company.
This CLE is co-sponsored by the New Jersey Chapter of the Association of Corporate Counsel.
CLE Credit: 1.8 NJ (incl. ethics)