HVL continuously assesses community needs and adjusts programming to meet low-income individuals where they are. In recent years, this assessment has revealed an increase in pro se litigants facing challenges with divorce and custody cases. These challenges range from difficulty preparing the correct legal pleadings to not being able to locate and serve necessary parties. This often causes not only immense personal frustration but also an inefficient use of court time and resources.
In response, HVL started a Remote Pro Se Drafting Clinic in the Summer of 2025 and has since helped over 30 individuals seeking assistance with drafting key family law documents. The impact of volunteering with this clinic is immediate and all it takes is strong Wi-Fi, a laptop, and templates provided by HVL. Volunteers log on to Zoom, meet with a prescreened client for about an hour, draft the needed document(s), and empower the pro se litigant to file on their own. It really is that simple – an HVL mentor is even available for the duration of your appointment in case you need guidance.
Cat Welch started volunteering with HVL last year and is excited to share her experience with colleagues.
How and when were you introduced to pro bono work?
I was introduced to pro bono work at my firm Bradley, Arant, Boult, Cummings LLP. I was able to jump in and help with a 1983 claim within my first few months at the firm.
What motivates you to volunteer specifically with HVL? How long have you been involved with HVL?
I am motivated by the need in the community. After hearing the statistics behind how many individuals need legal help and how many volunteers are available to participate, I developed a better understanding of how great the need is. I have been involved with HVL for almost a year now.
Were you experienced in the matters you’ve taken on with HVL prior to volunteering?
I have worked on a few law matters with HVL, and did not have any prior experience in family law (other than taking family law in law school). HVL has done an incredible job working to educate me on these matters and making themselves available to answer any questions I have.
What impact has your work with HVL had on your professional and personal journey?
HVL has provided me with great practice drafting various legal documents and developing my communication skills in my professional journey. It has also been very fulfilling to see the impact of the work I do.
What would you say to encourage more attorneys to volunteer with HVL?
HVL has options for anyone. If you are short on time but still want to help, HVL has options like LAWPods, which is involves providing limited scope assistance over a few hours. If you are interested in taking on a case, HVL has open cases listed online that you can jump in and help with as well. When you take on a case HVL helps you every step of the way.
Is there a particularly impactful moment or story from your experience volunteering?
I was impacted by my LAWPods session a few weeks ago. I was able to provide individuals with legal services in real time and felt that the work I was doing would impact their lives immediately.
You can sign up to volunteer for the Family Law Remote Drafting Clinic here.
