More than 300 attorneys across the U.S., including from some of the largest law firms in the world, have joined Unchained’s team of Pro Bono Lawyers to help people fleeing from forced marriages. Some have relevant legal experience; many do not. Almost all say their pro bono work for Unchained clients is the most rewarding work they’ve ever done.
Leann D. Forbes, Esq., Forbes Legal Group
I have assisted Unchained clients in pursuing and obtaining various immigration statuses. The work is extremely rewarding and fulfilling. A client recently shared positive news with me, as she often says, "because you are my life angel." Paying it forward has never felt so good — I highly recommend this nonprofit to any colleagues interested in joining as a pro bono attorney.
Kilpatrick Townsend & Stockton
We spent 18 months negotiating, meeting with opposing counsel and watching many emotional twists and turns for our client, until we achieved a favorable stipulation of divorce for her. She was ecstatic. “I cannot ever possibly repay you,” she said. The reward you can get from doing this kind of pro bono work is truly amazing.
Cara Parmigiani, Esq.
I was assigned a case, brilliant co-counsel, and a very knowledgeable mentor. Together with our client, a woman who has the inner courage of a lion, we tackled a complicated divorce. Ultimately, we were able to provide our client with the freedom she wanted. It was an outstanding experience I would recommend to anyone.
FAQs
Q. How many hours must I devote to a pro bono assignment?
A. Unchained’s clients’ cases vary widely; some last a few weeks, while others last more than a year. During that time, expect to spend an average of one or two hours per week on the matter. If you accept an Unchained client’s case, you must be committed to representing them until their legal matter is resolved.
Q. Can I limit my acceptance of assignments to a geographic region?
A. Yes, when you apply to become an Unchained pro bono lawyer, you can submit a list of counties where you are willing to accept pro bono assignments.
Q. Do I need my own malpractice insurance? Will I be covered under Unchained’s policy?
A. Unchained prefers that you carry your own malpractice insurance, in which case you will be protected by Unchained’s malpractice insurance as a secondary policy. If you do not carry your own insurance, you will be covered by Unchained’s malpractice insurance as a primary policy.
Q. Who will pay for filing fees, mailing costs and other expenses? Who will pay for expert witness fees, transcript fees, etc., if those become necessary?
A. Unchained will reimburse you for all reasonable filing, mailing and similar expenses that the court does not waive or order the adversary to pay. If possible (budget permitting), Unchained also will help pay for expert witness fees, transcript fees and other similar costs — provided that you try to check with Unchained before incurring any such expenses.
Q. Do I need to track the time I spend on pro bono assignments?
A. Yes, Unchained asks that you submit each month an accounting of the hours you have spent on Unchained pro bono assignments. Remember: If you donate 25 hours or more to an Unchained client in New Jersey, including by mentoring another pro bono attorney, you should be exempt from mandatory pro bono assignments in New Jersey.
Q. How do I join the team of Unchained pro bono attorneys?
A. Click here to submit a Pro Bono Attorney Application
