You are invited to become a pro bono attorney with Legal Access Alameda.
Legal Access Alameda, a sister organization of the ACBA, provides free legal assistance to low-income individuals in Alameda County; we offer both in-court and remote pro bono opportunities. The Shriver Housing Program provides much-needed legal assistance to low-income landlords who are pursuing unlawful detainer actions (often involving tenants who are not paying rent). The Program is part of a larger effort in Alameda County to provide legal services to both low-income landlords and tenants to reduce the risk of homelessness. Many of the low-income landlords served are senior citizens who rely on the rental proceeds as their main source of income.
There are two ways to volunteer:
- In court – Mandatory Settlement Conference Clinic (Wednesdays at the Hayward Hall of Justice): attorneys are needed to represent (limited scope) low-income landlords in settlement negotiations prior to trial.
- Out of court – Advice & Counsel Clinic (remote): attorneys are needed to provide advice and counsel (via telephone) to low-income landlords who are struggling with tenants who aren’t paying rent, damaging property or posing a health and safety threat.
Currently, we are particularly seeking attorneys who have experience in unlawful detainer actions (prosecution or defense). If you don’t have that type of experience but are eager to learn, please let me know, and I can keep you informed of upcoming training opportunities, or you can check out the ACBA upcoming events calendar.
The volunteer commitment is flexible – according to your schedule. You can volunteer as much or as little as your time permits – for example, some attorneys volunteer once a month at the mandatory settlement conference clinic. Any time you have to offer will make a meaningful difference. If you are interested or would like to learn more, please contact Rachel Shigekane, rachel@acbanet.org.
Rachel Shigekane | Housing Attorney
Legal Access Alameda