Managing Attorneys Kathleen Legendre and Jesse George discuss the Self-Help Resource Centers at the 24th Judicial District Court and Orleans Civil District Court. Self-Help Resource Centers provide legal information, resources, and court approved forms for self-represented litigants. To access additional information on this service, please go to The Pro Bono Project’s Self Help Resource Center web page. The Pro Bono Project operates these Centers on behalf of the courts.
Read MoreRepresenting Yourself in Court: Court Fees and In Forma Pauperis
The Pro Bono Project's Managing Attorney for Volunteer Engagement, Kathleen Legendre, discusses court fees, in forma pauperis, and representing yourself in court.
Read MoreThe Basics of a Succession
The Pro Bono Project's Staff Attorney, Alexis Clay, discusses successions basics.
Read MoreConsumer Law Information During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Local bankruptcy attorney and long-time Project volunteer Jenny Abshier shares some tips and information for consumers and potential bankruptcy filers related to the COVID-19 pandemic and the recently-passed CARES Act. Watch for information on student loans, mortgages, payment deferrals for creditors, and bankruptcy information.
Read MoreVolunteer Opportunities During the Pandemic
Learn about volunteer opportunities from our Managing Attorney for Volunteer Engagement, Kathleen Legendre.
Read MoreCOVID-19 Frequently Asked Questions
Information is an important tool that we can use to make decisions and to understand the issues facing us in uncertain times. We have compiled a list of common questions posed as a result of COVID-19. These include general information on where to find help and to address your legal questions.
Go to our COVID-19 Resource Page for information. The Pro Bono Project is hear to help you navigate the road ahead.
Click here to download the F.A.Q. worksheet (English). Preguntas Legales Frecuentes en Materia de la Pandemia del COVID-19 (Spanish).
Read MoreMessage from The Chair and Executive Director on the Covid-19 Pandemic
Since 1986, The Pro Bono Project has provided free civil legal aid to under-served members of our community. By engaging volunteer attorneys, paralegals, law students, and private citizens to render pro bono services, The Project serves clients in Orleans, Jefferson, Plaquemines, St. Bernard, St. Tammany, and Washington parishes who otherwise might not have access to the civil legal aid they need. From the devastation wrought by Katrina and the BP Oil Spill to the daily legal challenges faced by seniors, children, and families, our staff and volunteers consistently rally to support our mission. The next few days and weeks certainly will present new challenges, but The Pro Bono Project is ready to address our area’s legal needs.
Read MoreSelf Help Desk Hotline
Due to public safety and health, the Self Help Resource Centers in Orleans and Jefferson Parish are closed for in person visitors. The Pro Bono Project is offering Self Help resources online, by phone, and email. Call us on our hotline at 504-581-4043 x 216 from 9 am to 12 noon to speak to a volunteer who will provide legal information on self-help resources. Email us at selfhelp@probono-no.org.
Please check out our website www.probono-no.org and social media platforms for the latest information.
Please refer to each court's website for information about any closures and case matters.
Pro Bono Project Goes Virtual
Covid-19 and Self Help Resource Center at Orleans Civil District Court
Out of an abundance of caution and respect for guidelines issued by the CDC, state, and local governments, the Self Help Resource Center at Orleans Civil District Court is closed for in person assistance. The Pro Bono Project will offer Self-Help resources and information by email and phone. Please see the court's website for additional information about the court's schedule and other services.
Read MoreLaw Firms Adopt a Month at the Self-Help Resource Centers
We are proud to mark our third year managing the Self-Help Resource Center (SHRC) at Orleans Parish Civil District Court. With over 3,000 visitors in 2019, the SHRC is a model for collaboration and community partnerships.
The Project extends a special note of thanks to our leading law firms and to the Louisiana Bar Foundation for their funding of the SHRC at Orleans Civil District Court.
The Project also staffs the 24th Judicial District Court's Self-Help Resource Center. Now in our third year of managing the SHRC in Gretna, we welcome the continued support of the legal community and their willingness to help pro-se litigants represent themselves through the court system without delay.
To volunteer, please contact Kathleen Legendre, Managing Attorney for Volunteer Engagement.
Read More32nd Annual Justice For All Ball
For thirty-two years the Justice For All Ball has been the premier social event in the legal community, drawing hundreds of lawyers, judges, and private citizens together for an evening of fine food, spirits, and live music. The Justice For All Ball is The Pro Bono Project’s major fundraiser and provides the much needed funds to allow The Pro Bono Project to fulfill its mission.
Read MoreMessage from The Pro Bono Project's 2020 Chair
Over ten years ago, I became involved with The Pro Bono Project. My law firm, Adams and Reese, had been a long-time supporter of the organization and I saw first-hand the difference pro bono makes in the lives of both the clients and the attorneys who provide their time at no cost. In one of my first pro bono cases, I obtained a judgment for $19,500 for construction work that was not completed. Sadly, the client, who was in her 90s, passed away during the proceeding. I recovered the money on behalf of her heirs even after the defendant filed bankruptcy. This, and the other cases I have handled over the years, fulfill the reason I became involved with The Pro Bono Project and continue to do today as Board Chair. I know we can help families who cannot afford to do so address legal problems that disrupt their lives. Successful resolutions contribute to the well-being not only of individual families, but of our entire community.
Read MoreWelcome 2020 Board of Directors
The Pro Bono Project is pleased to announce its officers and board members for 2020. The following officers serve on the Executive Committee:
Philip A. Franco will serve as this year’s Chair.
Philip A. Franco, Esq., Adams and Reese, Chair
Sharonda Williams, Esq., Fishman Haygood, Vice Chair
Kelly Donaghy, KPMG, Treasurer
P. Kevin Comomb, Sr., Doyle Land Services, Secretary
Christopher K. Ralston, Phelps Dunbar, Immediate Past Chair
The following members of the legal and business community serve on the 2020 Board of Directors:
Aimee Arceneaux, LAMMICO
Hon. Roland L. Belsome, Jr., Louisiana Court of Appeal - 4th Circuit
Sandra Diggs-Miller,, Esq., Entergy
Crystal Domreis, Bradley Murchison
Thomas M. Flanagan, Flanagan Partners
Tracey Knight, Esq., U.S. Attorney’s Office
Lindsey M. Ladouceur, Esq., Ladouceur Law Firm
Katie Lasky, Esq., Lasky Murphy
Jedd S. Malish, Esq., Krebs & Jurgens
Roxanne Newman, Esq., Southeast LA Legal Services
Harriet S. Posner, Esq.
Andrea M. Price, Esq., Barrasso Usdin
J. Van Robichaux, Esq., Robichaux Law Firm
Lacey Rochester, Esq., Baker Donelson
Graham Ryan, Esq., Jones Walker
Nancy Samuels
Scott L. Sternberg, Esq., Sternberg, Naccari & White
Christopher Short, Esq., Kiefer & Kiefer
Cory Vidal, Esq., Hancock-Whitney
Raymond T. Waid, Esq., Liskow & Lewis
We are grateful for their time and service to the organization.
National Pro Bono Week
Celebrate Pro Bono Week with The Pro Bono Project. We have a number of events planned throughout October. From free CLEs to a happy hour open house, The Pro Bono Project acknowledges the important role our volunteers play in providing access to justice for members of our community.
Read MoreSecond Chance Auction
You've Got A Second Chance ...
... to bid on items from the 2019 Justice For All Ball's Silent Auction. The Second Chance Auction will be open through October 2nd at 12 noon. Register and bid on items like:
Be Your Own Muse - Shopping Spree and Salon Package
Fashion & Cigar Aficianado - Cigar Gift Certificate and Basket with Jos. A. Bank Clothiers gift certificate for a Traveler Sportscoat
Interior Upgrade - Gift Certificate and Basket of Goodies from Diana Gorlin Interiors and Disco Warehouse
Goddess Package - Get pampered and treat yourself
Harrah's Gulf Coast - Enjoy a one night stay at and dinner for two at Magnolia House.
Click here to view our Second Chance Silent Auction.
5 in 5 ... with Christy Boutte
This month’s five-in-five spotlight features Christy Boutte. Christy is a local artist with strong roots in the Gulf South and its artistic community. A graduate of Ringling College of Art and Design, Christy has created art professionally for the past 15 years. Her work has been commissioned by prominent organizations and non-profits and is showcased at her gallery in Gretna.
This year we are fortunate to have Christy offer her original creation of “Lady Justice.” The original will be auctioned off at this year’s Justice For All Ball on September 20th. It is featured on this year’s invitation and captures the spirit and energy of our community. Christy joins previous JFAB alumni such as such as Sharika Mahdi, Gustave Blache III, Amy Centola, Garland Robinette, and Terrance Osborne.
Read MoreShop and Travel for a Good Cause at JFAB 2019
Each year, the Justice For All Ball’s Silent Auction and Raffle offer opportunities to experience once-in-a-lifetime adventures, relax at spa retreats, eat at the finest restaurants, and tour Hollywood South. We are welcoming back AmFund, a non-profit organization that auctions off exclusive “bucket list” trips. These travel packages are good for three years with no blackout dates and include deluxe accommodations, round trip airfare, and a travel specialist to do all the booking for you! From European destinations and an Alaskan cruise to Wine Country and Tropical adventures, each trip won at the Silent Auction will benefit The Project. Make your dream trip a reality.
Read MoreSecond Line Down to Mardi Gras World on September 20th for the Justice For All Ball
Mardi Gras World’s Grand Oaks Mansion will be the site of this year’s 31st Annual Justice For All Ball on September 20, 2019.
We are on the move and ready to second line to this year’s 31st Annual Justice For All Ball. After several years at the Audubon Tea Room, The Pro Bono Project is excited to host this incredible event at Mardi Gras World’s Grand Oaks Mansion. Located on the Mississippi River, the Grand Oaks Mansion is an indoor venue that places attendees in the heart of Louisiana. It features a replica of a mansion – complete with columns, footbridges, oak trees, and a starlit sky. The Patron Party will precede the Ball and be held on the second floor of this building. The Riverview Room (as the name suggests) showcases a beautiful view of the Mississippi River.
Read More"Let's Dance!" at the 2019 Justice For All Ball
In the words of Zion Williamson, “Let’s Dance!”
And, dance we will at the 31st Annual Justice For All Ball on Friday, September 20th at Mardi Gras World’s Grand Oaks Mansion. New Orleans has a lot to celebrate and The Pro Bono Project promises an amazing night of entertainment, food, and silent auction offerings planned for this year’s event. We have partnered with Am Fund again to bring amazing once-in-a lifetime trips. Music by The Bucktown All-Stars will keep everyone on the dance floor. As in the past, we will have the best food and beverages from local restaurants and bars. Our Patron Party will feature exclusive dishes from a few of New Orleans premier restaurants.
The Project’s 2019 Justice For All Ball Chair, Nadège Assalé, along with the Board of Directors and the Ball Committee, are pleased to announce that the Oscar J. Tolmas Charitable Trust and its Trustee Vincent J. Giardina have accepted their invitation to serve as the 2019 Honorary Chair.
Read More