The LAC is Reopening!
Starting on Monday, July 6, 2020 you can once again get help in person at the Legal Assistance Center. Initially, open hours will be limited to 10 am to 2 pm from Monday to Friday.

For your safety and the safety of our staff and volunteers, you will be required to wear a mask or face covering to enter the courthouse and to get help at the LAC. To promote social distancing we will be limiting the number of people in the LAC.

If you are not feeling well, have a fever, or have been exposed to someone who has or may have COVID-19, please stay home and be well. You can still get help by phone by calling 616-632-6000. You will be asked to leave a message and we will return your call as soon as we can.
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LAC Volunteer Skills and Commitment

Objective

To assist, educate and support LAC patrons in meeting their legal needs and insure the quality and integrity of the LAC program.

Qualifications

  • Willingness and ability to learn basic law and procedure
  • Excellent listening and verbal communication skills
  • Respect for and desire to work with a diverse, vulnerable population
  • Patient, compassionate, professional and positive demeanor
  • Willingness and ability to maintain confidentiality
  • Ability to follow directions and maintain program boundaries

Responsibilities

  • Welcome patrons and assure sign in
  • Talk with patrons to understand needs and desired outcome
  • Demonstrate respect for patrons, their needs and challenges
  • Investigate pending cases using AccessKent
  • Communicate basic law, procedures and options
  • Consult and confer with staff as appropriate
  • Provide appropriate forms and resources for patrons
  • Provide guidance to patrons for the completion of forms and pleadings
  • Review, copy and assemble patron materials
  • Identify patrons who may qualify for Legal Aid or other representation
  • Provide information about and make referrals to legal and non-legal community resources to meet patron needs
  • Assist in the response to patron phone calls as requested
  • Assist with support of program and operations as requested

Volunteer Commitment

Volunteers serve a minimum of one shift, either morning (8:30 am to 1:00 pm) or afternoon (12:30 pm to 5:00 pm), one day per week (Monday through Friday. Wednesdays only have one shift.), over a minimum of two consecutive terms (January-April, May-August, September-December).