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LAC Volunteer Skills and Commitment

Volunteer Commitment

The LAC volunteer program follows an academic term calendar, Winter, Summer, and Fall. Volunteer terms begin in January, May, and September (often the last week of August). Volunteers must complete and submit the Volunteer Application and will be asked to interview before receiving a volunteer offer. Please see the Volunteer Calendar for specific application deadlines, interview schedules, and term start and end dates for upcoming terms. Volunteers are required to serve for two consecutive terms. Volunteers are eligible to apply for an internship for credit in their second volunteer term. Volunteers are asked to serve a minimum of two, half-day shifts per week. Morning shifts are from 8:30 am to 1:00 pm; afternoon shifts are from 12:30 pm to 5:00 pm.

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