The Pro Bono Portal UK will initially be used for LawWorks’ not-for-profits programme, which connects small charities with lawyers who provide pro bono services such as drafting contracts, reviewing a lease and clarifying rights in a commercial dispute. Last year, the programme connected 240 smaller charities and social enterprises, working with vulnerable or disadvantaged individuals, families and communities, with more than 40 law firms and in-house legal teams.
LawWorks will then expand access to the portal to law centres, advice agencies and others.
The portal was originally developed by Justice Connect, an Australian charity that develops technology products that support access to justice, and adapted for use in England and Wales. Law firms and legal teams can choose their preferred areas of law and types of projects when registering, view and review the opportunities available and choose their preferred project, all in one place. Justice Connect is looking to make its platform available to clearinghouses at low or no cost.
Martin Barnes, Chief Executive of LawWorks, said: ‘We believe there will be numerous benefits to our volunteers with the not-for-profits programme on the platform, including greater flexibility, a simpler brokerage process, personalised weekly emails featuring opportunities, direct messaging, and tracking the opportunities members are interested in.
‘We are ambitious for the portal and its potential to become a national “one-stop shop” for the whole solicitors’ profession and others seeking legal pro bono and other volunteer opportunities.’
In addition to the portal, LawWorks is supporting and developing other digital platforms including Free Legal Answers, enabling individuals to request initial or one-off legal advice, and The Jeanie Project (currently in development), which helps gather relevant information for those seeking free legal advice.
