Frequently Asked Questions
I’m an in-house counsel who is not admitted to the Connecticut bar, can I volunteer?
Yes. An authorized in-house counsel who is properly registered as in-house counsel under the guidelines in Connecticut Practice Book Section 2-15A (d) may participate in the provision of any pro bono legal services. He or she may do so under CVLC’s supervision, or under the supervision of a member of the Connecticut bar also working on the pro bono representation. More information can be found in the rule, Connecticut Practice Book Section 2-15A. AUTHORIZED HOUSE COUNSEL, which can be found here.
What about malpractice insurance?
CVLC’s malpractice policy includes a rider to insure volunteers for claims made against them arising from their representation of clients referred by CVLC.
I’m not a lawyer, what can I do to help?
- Paralegals – Paralegals can assist CVLC with a variety of tasks, including document and file review, legal research or other independent projects. Paralegals may choose to work directly with clients by completing client inquires and call backs and family form assistance. Also, paralegals may assist in the preparation, presentation or prosecution of a claim for Veterans Benefits under the direct supervision of an accredited attorney of record. See 38 C.F.R. §14.629(c)(3) for more information on how paralegals can assist with VA benefits cases.
- Law students – CVLC welcomes law student volunteers, interns and externs who work with staff attorneys in handling cases for veterans.
- Others – CVLC accepts other volunteers, who work alongside staff on a variety of projects, including graphic design, programming, photography, videography, grant-writing, communications and other tasks as needed.