How to become a Volunteer Legal Advisor

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1-2 days a week
Entry level
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Thinking of spending some time as a Volunteer Legal Advisor?

A Volunteer Legal Advisor is someone who uses their expertise and wealth of experience to help people that are have difficulty accessing legal advice or representation. Whether you’ve spent several years practicing law or are fresh out of law school, there are plenty of opportunities for you to get involved. Be prepared to speak on behalf of your clients during negotiations, draft letters on their behalf, help them fill out complicated forms and even make referrals that can benefit them long-term.

The benefits of being a Volunteer Legal Advisor

How you’re helping

  • Providing personal support for clients from disadvantaged backgrounds
  • Helping establish best-practice for handling difficult cases
  • Contributing valuable insight and expertise to make significant changes

What you’re gaining

  • A clear sense of purpose – it’s unbelievably rewarding to help someone who is struggling
  • Essential non-profit sector legal experience
  • Formal and on-the-job training and additional guidance in your legal field

Development and growth

Skills you’ll need

  • Must have studied or be currently studying law
  • Expertise in a particular area of the law, depending on the organisation (i.e. family law, social welfare, etc.)
  • A pre-established knowledge of legal practices and regulations
  • Excellent written and verbal communication
  • Ability to foster positive working relationships in diverse organisations

Skills you’ll gain

  • Research and campaigning expertise
  • Tact in handling sensitive situations
  • Knowledge of non-profit governance and structure