Click here to fill out a volunteer attorney application today!

Volunteer Attorney Jerrold BergfalkJustice means a fair shake. Justice means that an individual will not be railroaded by those with more power, money or legal know-how. It means that regardless of who you are, you have the right to equality. This is what VLN does best.”

Jerrold Bergfalk, Lindquist & Vennum PLLP (Retired)

Every year over 800 attorneys, interpreters, law-students, paralegals, paralegal students and community members volunteer with VLN. Volunteers are the lifeblood of our organization. Without you, thousands of members of our community would have no help in accessing our justice system or the law’s protections. Whether you are volunteering to give back to the community or are interested in developing new skills or expertise, we need your help!

Volunteer Opportunities

VLN has volunteer opportunities in most areas of civil law and opportunities for all experience levels. Substantive training resources, seminars and experienced mentors are available in most areas.  Administrative support, mailing addresses and malpractice insurance is available to all volunteers representing or advising a VLN client.

Greatest Need

Housing
Bankruptcy
Custody
Divorces
Spanish Language Services
Immigration

Other Need

Administrative
Civil/Consumer
Criminal Expungement
Employment & Unemployment Insurance
Real Estate
“Stop Contact” Letters
Tax

Getting Started

Completing an application

If you are interested in volunteering with VLN please complete the  Volunteer Attorney Registration form. You will have the opportunity to indicate areas of law you are interested in. After completing the form you will receive an invitation to the next new volunteer meeting.

Online Volunteer Orientation Training Video

VLN is not holding any in-person orientations for new volunteer attorneys during the pandemic. Please watch this recorded orientation for new volunteer attorneys to learn more about VLN, how it works, and what you can do to help.

Interpreters

VLN relies on volunteer interpreters to serve clients with limited English proficiencies. All languages are needed with an emphasis on Spanish, Somali and Amharic.  Please complete our interpreter application form to receive more information.

Not an Attorney? No Problem

VLN has volunteer opportunities for paralegals, paralegal students, law students and anyone interested in supporting VLN’s mission. Please see our intern application for more information.