Volunteer with LiveHelp
LiveHelp is an online chat project staffed by trained volunteers who help vulnerable New Yorkers understand and solve their civil legal problems. LiveHelp volunteers connect people to relevant legal information, DIY forms, and referrals to legal service providers.
Who can volunteer and how does it work?
LiveHelp is staffed primarily by law students, law graduates, and volunteer attorneys, under the supervision of a LawHelpNY staff attorney.
Volunteers commit to at least 50 hours of pro bono service as a LiveHelp Operator. Generally, they work at least one weekly, three-hour shift throughout their service.
Volunteers work from their own computer, in any location where they can reliably access the internet. LawHelpNY staff supervise volunteers and review transcripts of chats.
After at least 50 hours of volunteering, complete an exit survey and prepare the paperwork for LawHelpNY to verify the pro bono requirement of the New York State Bar or your law school.
Apply online to become a LiveHelp Volunteer
To be considered for a volunteer position for Spring 2024, please:
- complete our online application, and
- email your resume with LiveHelp Volunteer Application, Spring 2024 in the subject line, to volunteer@probono.net by February 18, 2024. The Spring 2024 session runs from March through May.
More questions?
Read this resource for answers to the most common questions from LiveHelp volunteer applicants.
Volunteer Testimonials
"Serving as a LiveHelp Operator has been an invaluable experience for me, not only as a law student but as a person. It opened my eyes to the legal issues people face daily, and being able to help and offer hope was rewarding. I found myself reflecting on how much of a difference LawHelpNY is making for residents in NY when they have nowhere else to turn. I will always be proud to be a part of that."
Celia, Pace Law School