Volunteering at Lawyers on Call: Giving Back to the Community Through Legal Aid
As an attorney, my job is to help people navigate complex legal matters and advocate for their rights. But sometimes, the most rewarding part of being a lawyer isn’t representing clients in courtrooms or negotiating deals—it’s using your skills to make a direct, positive impact in your community. Recently, I had the privilege of volunteering at the North Carolina Bar Foundation’s Lawyers on Call program, and the experience reaffirmed why I became an attorney in the first place.
What is Lawyers on Call?
For over 30 years, the Lawyers on Call program has served as a valuable resource for North Carolinians in need of legal advice but who cannot afford the high costs typically associated with hiring an attorney. Through this initiative, volunteer attorneys like myself offer free, brief legal consultations to individuals who reach out through a hotline or participate in scheduled events.
The North Carolina Bar Foundation organizes this program to promote equal access to justice and provide individuals with expert legal guidance on a range of issues, including family law, housing, consumer rights, employment disputes, and more. It’s an opportunity for attorneys to give back to the community while ensuring that even those with limited financial resources can access crucial legal information.
My Role as a Volunteer Attorney
On the day of the event, I was part of a team of dedicated lawyers who volunteered their time to answer questions from community members. We offered legal advice, and helped individuals understand their rights, providing them with resources or referrals to further legal assistance when necessary.
I found myself handling a variety of inquiries related to family law. Each call was unique, and each person brought their own set of challenges. But the common thread was clear: these individuals were looking for direction, support, and a path forward during difficult circumstances. For many, simply speaking with an attorney—even briefly—brought a sense of relief, knowing that they were not alone in facing their legal struggles.
The Power of Free Legal Advice
One of the most rewarding aspects of this experience was seeing how much of an impact a small amount of legal advice could have. Many callers had no idea where to start with their issues. They may have been overwhelmed by paperwork, confused about how to handle a legal matter, or unsure whether they even had a case.
By offering clear, practical advice and pointing them toward the right resources, I saw firsthand how even a short conversation could help people feel more empowered. Whether it was guiding someone through the process of filing for a divorce or helping them understand their rights when it comes to child custody, I was able to offer tangible assistance that could make a big difference in their lives.
Why Volunteering Matters
Legal representation can often seem out of reach for many people, especially those facing financial hardship or those who don’t know where to turn for help. Programs like Lawyers on Call break down those barriers, ensuring that legal assistance is accessible to everyone, regardless of their financial situation.
As attorneys, we often work with clients who are already in the midst of major legal battles. But programs like this remind us that the need for legal guidance is widespread, and sometimes, people simply need someone to point them in the right direction. Volunteering for Lawyers on Call was a chance to offer that crucial guidance to those who may not have had access to it otherwise.
Conclusion: Giving Back to the Community
Lawyers on Call is a prime example of how attorneys can use their expertise to serve the public and promote justice for all. Volunteering in this program not only allows us to help others but also fosters a sense of connection and community within the legal profession.
The experience reminded me why I became a lawyer: to advocate for others and make a difference in the lives of those who need it most. I encourage fellow attorneys to consider volunteering with Lawyers on Call—whether for a few hours or as a regular contributor. Your time, expertise, and advice could be exactly what someone needs to move forward in their life.
