April 2026 Public Service Corner

APRIL IS NATIONAL VOLUNTEER MONTH 

National Volunteer Month is the perfect time to recognize and acknowledge the far-reaching positive impact volunteer attorneys make to the lives of low-income persons. 

We thank you for participating in the Bar’s Volunteer Lawyer Program, Pro Bono Program for the Elderly, and the US Armed Forces Legal Services Project.  The Bar’s pro bono programs facilitate the placement of several hundred pro bono cases annually, but new members are always needed to join to increase the provision of legal protections.  Please consider joining today to provide representation for our most vulnerable population. 

Members of our pro bono programs report satisfying and unique experiences that sometimes open doors for their practice.  Whether you have been an attorney for years or it is the beginning of your career, pro bono cases can provide the opportunity to explore new areas of law. Please note, seasoned members of the Bar are available as mentors through the pro bono programs.  

Once again, this year, any pro bono program members who accept a pro bono case during April will be entered into a drawing to win a complimentary ticket to this year’s excellent Annual Meeting being held at the Convention Center on June 11 & 12. Two lucky winners will be notified the first week of May. 

Please feel free to contact Public Services Director, Susan Fontaine, at 401-421-7758 for any questions and/or to join.  

If you are not already a member, please consider joining today.  We are continually grateful for your dedication and volunteer spirit. 

Clients are Springing Up at LRS 

The Bar Association’s Lawyer Referral Service (LRS) offers you a major opportunity to obtain new clients while you provide a public service. For only $8.00 a month we can help market your practice and increase your client base. New members may join now for the special price of only $35.00 until September 2026 at which time you can choose to renew for the annual membership fee of only $100.00. 

Joining is an easy process!  Applications are available for completion on the Bar Association website at ribar.com. You may also contact Amy Rodriguez directly to receive an application or call at 401-421-7799.  If you have any questions about the referral process or more detailed information, please don’t hesitate to contact us.  

 We look forward to sending you referrals!