Join Volunteer Lawyers Network’s Legacy of Justice Program and make a lasting impact for years to come.
Your gift will provide an estate tax deduction for your family, and allow Volunteer Lawyers Network to respond to the ever-changing needs of the communities you have dedicated your life to serving.
How do I add Volunteer Lawyers Network to my will?
There are several ways you can name Volunteer Lawyers Network as a beneficiary in your will or trust. You may choose to give specific assets, a portion of your estate, or your residual estate after payment of other bequests.
You can state how you would like your gift to be used, either for a specific program or for our general fund to enable us to meet the ever-changing needs of the communities we serve.
Sample Bequest Language for Wills
Residual estate (after other bequests or designations are named):
“I give to Volunteer Lawyers Network, Ltd., located in Minneapolis, Minnesota, the residue of my estate to be used by Volunteer Lawyers Network, Ltd. for its unrestricted use.”
Portion of the estate:
“I give to Volunteer Lawyers Network, Ltd., located in Minneapolis, Minnesota, _______% of the residue of my estate after taxes, expenses and prior gifts to be used by Volunteer Lawyers Network, Ltd. for its unrestricted use.”
Specific amount:
“I give to Volunteer Lawyers Network, Ltd., located in Minneapolis, Minnesota, the sum of $____________ to be used by Volunteer Lawyers Network, Ltd. for its unrestricted use.”
What documentation does Volunteer Lawyers Network need from me?
For recordkeeping purposes, a copy of your estate documents (or the portion thereof that names Volunteer Lawyers Network as a beneficiary) would be helpful and would be kept confidential.
Can I make my legacy gift anonymously?
Absolutely. We will respect your wishes if you would like your giving to remain confidential.
How will I be recognized for my gift?
Unless you choose to remain anonymous, you will be listed on our website and in various other published materials as a member of the Legacy of Justice Group. You will receive personal acknowledgements and any special benefits accorded to our Legacy donors.
Are there ways to leave a legacy gift without changing my will?
Yes! Talk to your financial planner about various types of trusts, donor-advised funds or distributions from your retirement accounts. Please contact Molly Whelan at [email protected] if you need more information to make these kinds of gifts.
What else do I need to know?
Volunteer Lawyers Network, Ltd. is a Minneapolis, Minnesota-based 501(c)3 non-profit organization established in 1966. All gifts will be used to provide civil legal services to people experiencing poverty and are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law. Our federal ID number is 41-0988459.