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Happy New Year! I’m thrilled to share our first Case List of 2025, full of opportunities for you to make a lasting impact on the lives of those in need. Whether you’re a seasoned volunteer or considering your first pro bono case, there’s no better time to get involved.
I’m also excited to announce a change that PLC has made in response to feedback from firms and attorneys interested in U-Visa cases. To help make these cases more manageable, PLC will now:
- Require attorneys to complete the U-Visa within 6 months. The pro bono attorney’s services will be completed once the U-Visa is finalized.
- Once the U-Visa is finalized, PLC will file the U-Visa with USCIS and remain the attorney of record throughout the case.
This new process ensures you can contribute to these critical cases while keeping the time commitment reasonable.
As always, we are here to support you every step of the way. You will also be paired with a PLC contact-attorney who is a subject matter expert, ready to provide technical assistance and support throughout the case – please don’t hesitate to reach out to them, as they are here to help.
Thank you for being part of our pro bono community. Let’s make 2025 a year of meaningful impact together!
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Sincerely,
Angela Mestre
Pro Bono Coordinator
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Client Unjustly Pressured Out of Home: Disability Discrimination and Breach of Contract
– PLC 24-0093859
Client, an individual with disabilities, signed a lease in May 2024, excited to settle into her new home. But upon paying a security deposit and moving into the unit in August 2024, Client was met with major accessibility barriers: no wheelchair ramps at her unit’s entry or around the building, making it nearly impossible for her to navigate safely. After multiple pleas to management, ramps were installed. However, the ramps were not done correctly which resulted in damage to Client’s wheelchair. Rather than address the issues, management gave Client an ultimatum: if she was not pleased, she could break her lease. Feeling there were no other options, Client moved out in September 2024. Client now faces a lease break fee and has lost her security deposit. Client is seeking a pro bono attorney to help her recover her security deposit and address the discrimination based on her protected class.
Email Directing Attorney Richard Walker
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DOMESTIC VIOLENCE SURVIVORS | |
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Advocating for Justice: Supporting a Domestic Abuse Survivor in a Family Court Hearing
(Limited Scope) – PLC 23-0082312
Client, a courageous single mother of two, is seeking a pro bono attorney to assist her in family court on a limited scope basis for her motion to compel (or in in the alternative, waive preliminary disclosures). Client has endured domestic abuse from her former spouse and currently has a domestic violence restraining order in place. Despite repeated attempts, her former spouse has failed to comply with mandatory disclosures required by the court. After nearly a year of delays, the former spouse recently appeared in court during Client’s first contempt motion attempt. The judge indicated that her motion would have been accepted but for certain errors in her motion, and her former spouse’s unexpected appearance. Determined to move forward, Client has submitted a new motion and secured a new hearing date. Client now seeks legal representation during the hearing to help level the power dynamic, navigate complex legal language, and advocate effectively as she works toward the next stage of her divorce case. Your support could make all the difference in her pursuit of justice and stability for her family.
Contact Equal Justice Works Fellow Sheila Robles
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Advocating for Justice: Supporting a Domestic Abuse Survivor in a Family Court Hearing
(Limited Scope) – PLC 23-0082312
Client, a courageous single mother of two, is seeking a pro bono attorney to assist her in family court on a limited scope basis for her motion to compel (or in in the alternative, waive preliminary disclosures). Client has endured domestic abuse from her former spouse and currently has a domestic violence restraining order in place. Despite repeated attempts, her former spouse has failed to comply with mandatory disclosures required by the court. After nearly a year of delays, the former spouse recently appeared in court during Client’s first contempt motion attempt. The judge indicated that her motion would have been accepted but for certain errors in her motion, and her former spouse’s unexpected appearance. Determined to move forward, Client has submitted a new motion and secured a new hearing date. Client now seeks legal representation during the hearing to help level the power dynamic, navigate complex legal language, and advocate effectively as she works toward the next stage of her divorce case. Your support could make all the difference in her pursuit of justice and stability for her family.
Contact Equal Justice Works Fellow Sheila Robles
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FINANCIAL/INCOME PROTECTION | |
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Help a Homeowner Resolve a Dispute with an Unlicensed Contractor – PLC 24-0091280
Client is seeking a pro bono attorney to help resolve a frustrating dispute with a contractor. Client paid approximately $23,000 for materials and work to construct a koi fishpond, build a planter wall with a concrete cap, and install pavers in his backyard. However, a few months into the project, Contractor abruptly ceased all communication with Client and abandoned the job, leaving the project incomplete. Client filed a complaint with the Contractors State License Board, only to discover that Contractor was unlicensed, leaving Client without recourse through the Board. This case offers a chance to assist a homeowner in seeking accountability and recouping losses from an unlicensed contractor.
Email Staff Attorney Monica Bedia
Client Seeks Justice and Clarity: Suspected Forgery and Transfer of Home into a Trust
– PLC 24-0094392
Client lives with her mother in a home in which Client once owned as a joint tenant. Client believes her sister forged Client’s signature on deed documents, effectively transferring the home out of Client’s name. She believes her sister then placed the property into their mother’s trust, without authorization from either Client or their mother. Client has no information regarding the trust's beneficiaries. Client seeks a pro bono attorney to assist in obtaining more information about the trust, its beneficiaries, and to explore her legal options, including a possible quiet title action to reclaim her rightful ownership.
Email Staff Attorney Morgan Padgett
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U-Visa Assistance for a Domestic Violence Survivor – PLC 24-0090108*
Client is eligible for a U-Visa based on repeated domestic violence inflicted by her former romantic partner during their relationship. She endured severe physical and emotional harm, including sexual assault and cruel, punitive treatment. As a result of the abuse, in 2024 Client obtained a three-year restraining order against her ex-partner in Orange County Superior Court. Despite taking steps to move forward, Client continues to experience the emotional effects of the abuse, including lingering anxiety. A devoted mother to three young U.S. citizen children, she is a monolingual Spanish speaker and needs a pro bono attorney to assist with her U-Visa application to help her build a more secure future for her family. Interpretation services are available to support communication, if needed.
Email Staff Attorney Allyssa Scheyer
*NOTE: With PLC’s new policy, PLC will be, and remain, the attorney of record on this case. In addition, the pro bono attorney must finalize the U-Visa within 6 months of placement, and forward it to PLC for review and approval. At that point the pro bono attorney’s commitment and service on this case will be completed. PLC will file the U-Visa with USCIS as attorney of record.
Fighting for a New Beginning: U-Visa Assistance Needed – PLC 24-0089978*
Client is seeking pro bono representation to apply for a U-Visa after experiencing violent assaults by his ex-wife during their marriage. The abuse also extended to his elderly mother, who was assaulted on a separate occasion. Both Client and his mother reported the incidents to law enforcement and successfully obtained three-year restraining orders against the ex-wife in 2024. Client and his mother are cooperating with the Orange County District Attorney’s office in the felony assault prosecution of the ex-wife. However, both continue to suffer from anxiety and emotional distress due to the violence they endured. Client, a bilingual English/Hindi speaker, is pursuing the U-Visa as a sole applicant, as his elderly mother is pursuing her own U-Visa. Your support can help empower this survivor to move forward and rebuild his life.
Email Staff Attorney Allyssa Scheyer
*NOTE: With PLC’s new policy, PLC will be, and remain, the attorney of record on this case. In addition, the pro bono attorney must finalize the U-Visa within 6 months of placement, and forward it to PLC for review and approval. At that point the pro bono attorney’s commitment and service on this case will be completed. PLC will file the U-Visa with USCIS as attorney of record.
Helping a Survivor: Advocate for a VAWA Petition – PLC 24-0088861
Client, a courageous single father, is seeking a pro bono attorney in a VAWA-based Adjustment of Status Petition. Client endured severe domestic violence—physical, verbal, and psychological—at the hands of his U.S. citizen spouse. Now in the midst of divorce proceedings, he is focused on creating a stable future for himself and his 18-year-old son. Client needs legal support to take this critical step toward security and independence. This case offers the opportunity to help a survivor of domestic violence navigate the immigration system and build a safer life for his family. Client is a monolingual Chinese speaker and interpretation services are available to support communication, if needed.
Email Staff Attorney Andy Marin
Seeking Safety and Stability: Help a Mother Secure a U-Visa – PLC 24-0084927*
Client, a 51-year-old mother, is seeking pro bono assistance with a U-Visa petition after enduring unimaginable trauma. Her brave decision to report her ex-husband’s sexual abuse of her daughter led to his conviction and imprisonment. While justice was served, the emotional toll remains. Client continues to manage anxiety with medication and therapy as she rebuilds her life. Client is now seeking a pro bono attorney to help her take the next step toward safety and stability. This is a powerful opportunity to help a survivor and her family secure a brighter future. Client is a monolingual Spanish speaker and interpretation services are available to support communication, if needed.
Email Staff Attorney Andy Marin
*NOTE: With PLC’s new policy, PLC will be, and remain, the attorney of record on this case. In addition, the pro bono attorney must finalize the U-Visa within 6 months of placement, and forward it to PLC for review and approval. At that point the pro bono attorney’s commitment and service on this case will be completed. PLC will file the U-Visa with USCIS as attorney of record.
Client is Seeking Safety and Stability: U-Visa – PLC 24-0084946*
Client, a 36-year-old single mother and DACA recipient, is seeking protection for herself and her young U.S. citizen child after enduring years of verbal and emotional abuse from her ex-partner and father of her minor child. Client has shown incredible strength in breaking free from the cycle of domestic violence and is now pursuing a U-Visa to secure safety and stability for her family. By taking on this case, you’ll be helping a brave mother protect her child and build a safer future. Client is a monolingual Spanish speaker and interpretation services are available to support communication, if needed.
Email Staff Attorney Allyssa Scheyer
*NOTE: With PLC’s new policy, PLC will be, and remain, the attorney of record on this case. In addition, the pro bono attorney must finalize the U-Visa within 6 months of placement, and forward it to PLC for review and approval. At that point the pro bono attorney’s commitment and service on this case will be completed. PLC will file the U-Visa with USCIS as attorney of record.
Stand Up for Justice: U-Visa – PLC 23-0080707*
Client is seeking a pro bono attorney to assist on a U-Visa. Client is a hardworking father and security guard who was the victim of a brutal assault with a deadly weapon while on the job. This dedicated father of three U.S. citizen children, cooperated fully with the police investigation and is now eligible for a U-Visa. However, he continues to suffer from serious health complications resulting from the assault. Client is a monolingual Spanish speaker and seeks to include his wife, a Mexican national, as a derivative on his application.
Email Staff Attorney Allyssa Scheyer
*NOTE: With PLC’s new policy, PLC will be, and remain, the attorney of record on this case. In addition, the pro bono attorney must finalize the U-Visa within 6 months of placement, and forward it to PLC for review and approval. At that point the pro bono attorney’s commitment and service on this case will be completed. PLC will file the U-Visa with USCIS as attorney of record.
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A Mobilehome Dream Turned Nightmare: Help a Client Fight for Her Home Title Issues
– PLC 24-0088369
Client, a hardworking monolingual Spanish-speaker, invested her entire life savings to purchase a mobile home at an auction by Mobilehome Park in 2021. But her dream quickly unraveled. Recently, Client discovered that Mobilehome Park failed to obtain title to the mobile home before auctioning it and failed to transfer title to her after the sale. To make matters worse, there is an undisclosed lien from a former owner, along with years of unpaid taxes. She now faces title, lien, and tax issues and is seeking a pro bono attorney to help resolve these issues. This case presents a unique opportunity to help Client fight for the home she worked so hard to secure and bring some much-needed peace of mind.
Email Directing Attorney Richard Walker
A Homebound Legacy: Help Clear a 20-Year-Old Lien – PLC 24-0088736
Client is determined to secure his place on the title of his family’s mobilehome. Yet, his efforts have been stalled by a decades-old lien placed on the home nearly 20 years ago. The lienholder passed away in 2008, and despite Client’s best efforts, he has been unable to locate any heirs to resolve the matter. He’s now seeking a pro bono attorney to assist in removing the lien and finally adding Client’s name to the title. This case offers the chance to make a difference by helping Client ensure a home that’s rightfully his.
Email Directing Attorney Richard Walker
Client Unjustly Pressured Out of Home: Disability Discrimination and Breach of Contract
– PLC 24-0093859
Client, an individual with disabilities, signed a lease in May 2024, excited to settle into her new home. But upon paying a security deposit and moving into the unit in August 2024, Client was met with major accessibility barriers: no wheelchair ramps at her unit’s entry or around the building, making it nearly impossible for her to navigate safely. After multiple pleas to management, ramps were installed. However, the ramps were not done correctly which resulted in damage to Client’s wheelchair. Rather than address the issues, management gave Client an ultimatum: if she was not pleased, she could break her lease. Feeling there were no other options, Client moved out in September 2024. Client now faces a lease break fee and has lost her security deposit. Client is seeking a pro bono attorney to help her recover her security deposit and address the discrimination based on her protected class.
Email Directing Attorney Richard Walker
Clearing Title for a Fresh Start: Lien on Mobilehome – PLC 24-0095956
Client purchased a mobilehome in 2018, only to discover that the title was never transferred from the previous owner into Client’s name. In fact, the title still lists the original owners—who are now unreachable—and carries a lien recorded over 30 years ago. This long-standing paperwork issue has left Client without clear ownership, limiting his rights and peace of mind. Client is now seeking a pro bono attorney to remove the lien and finally secure the title in his name. This case offers a chance to help Client achieve true ownership of his home.
Email Directing Attorney Richard Walker
Unlawful Detainer: Full Representation Needed for Tenant – PLC 24-0088905
Landlord is evicting entire building(s) of tenants in violation of Tenant Protection Act of 2019 and recent amendments. Citing the need for “substantial remodel,” Landlord issued 60-Day notices to vacate to multiple families. These notices, which expired mid-June, appear to violate the Tenant Protection Act as updated on April 1, 2024 by failing to show a substantial remodel will occur requiring tenants to vacate for thirty days. Once the 60 days expired, Landlord filed an unlawful detainer action against our Clients. Clients have demurred twice to the complaint, with the Court granting Landlord leave to amend each time. Some discovery has been completed and no trial date has been set. Clients are preparing to respond to the most recently amended complaint. Client is in need of full scope representation to continue challenging the unlawful detainer (currently other tenants are represented in their respective cases by other firms).
Email Directing Attorney Richard Walker
Stand Up for a Survivor: Eviction Defense Needed – PLC 24-0092464
Pro bono attorney needed to defend a mother and her adult daughter who are facing eviction, possibly linked to Client’s status as a victim of domestic violence. With a trial scheduled for mid-October pretrial motion pending and a hearing date in late September, Client urgently needs representation in this unlawful detainer action to prevent the loss of their home. No trial date has been set yet. This is an opportunity to make a meaningful impact by protecting the rights of a survivor and her family.
Email Supervising Attorney Ryan Ueda
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Help Client Seek Justice and Clarity: Suspected Forgery and Transfer of Home into a Trust –
PLC 24-0094392
Client lives with her mother in a home in which Client once was an owner of the home as a joint tenant. Client believes her sister forged Client’s signature on deed documents, effectively transferring the home out of Client’s name. She believes her sister then placed the property into their mother’s trust, without authorization from either Client or their mother. Now, Client has no information regarding the trust's beneficiaries. Client seeks a pro bono attorney to assist in obtaining more information about the trust, its beneficiaries, and explore her legal options, including a possible quiet title action to reclaim her rightful ownership.
Email Staff Attorney Morgan Padgett
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Navigating Lease Challenges for an Existing Nonprofit Property Owner – PLC 25-0099691
Client is an established nonprofit property owner dedicated to advancing self-sufficiency through programs in health, financial stability, education, and community engagement. Client has an existing lease with another nonprofit tenant, set to expire mid-year, and plans to reclaim the space for its own needs. However, the tenant claims a Notice of Federal Interest (“NOFI”) on the property requires the lease to be extended. Client was never notified of this NOFI and did not provide consent for it. Client seeks a pro bono attorney to determine if it is bound by the NOFI and to navigate the lease termination process. Your expertise can help this nonprofit resolve the matter and continue its vital work in the community.
Email Staff Attorney Brigid Joyce
Supporting a Nonprofit Fighting Hunger and Food Waste – PLC 24-0096980
A new nonprofit organization is on a mission to combat food waste and address hunger by rescuing surplus food, including items nearing or past their prime, from supermarkets and redistributing it to individuals and families in need. Client is seeking a pro bono attorney to complete the process of incorporation and obtain tax-exempt status, enabling them to expand their impact and better serve the community. Your support can help launch this vital initiative and make a meaningful difference in the fight against hunger.
Email Staff Attorney Violeta Schultz
Support a Nonprofit with Drafting and Reviewing of Pledge Agreements & Donor Acknowledgments – PLC 24-0098026
Client, an established nonprofit, is dedicated to promoting the safety and well-being of visitors at a South County beach through education and the development of community partnerships. The organization is now embarking on an exciting project to commission a statue by a local artist, celebrating their mission and community impact. As they prepare to launch their fundraising efforts, they are seeking a pro bono attorney’s assistance in drafting and reviewing a Pledge Agreement and Donor Acknowledgment. This is a unique opportunity to support a nonprofit’s creative vision and help ensure the success of a project that will inspire and enhance the community.
Email Supervising Attorney Brigid Joyce
Help a Veteran Start a Health-Related Nonprofit – PLC 24-0096899
Client, a passionate Veteran, has a mission: to educate communities—including local restaurants and their patrons—about the life-changing benefits of eating whole, unrefined foods. With deep conviction, Client believes that the food choices today, and for the past 70 years, have led to preventable health issues and increased morbidity and Client is ready to make a difference. He is now seeking a pro bono attorney to help him incorporate in California and obtain tax-exempt status with the IRS. This is a unique chance to support a Veteran’s vision for healthier communities while helping future generations learn more about food quality and health.
Email Supervising Attorney Brigid Joyce
Advocate for Environmental Justice: Legal Guidance Needed for Startup Nonprofit
– PLC 24-0094801
Client, a newly formed nonprofit is seeking pro bono legal counsel to challenge a commercial project currently in the approval process. The project raises serious environmental and health concerns in the surrounding communities. Client is looking for advice on how to legally challenge and/or voice their opposition to the project, while minimizing potential liability for the organization and its Board members. Your guidance will help Client navigate the complexities of advocacy while ensuring legal protection for their organization.
Email Supervising Attorney Brigid Joyce
Help a Nonprofit Supporting Local Families with Free Food Assistance: Compliance Review
– PLC 24-0089511
Client is an established nonprofit organization whose mission is to provide free food to low-income families. Client needs legal assistance from a pro bono attorney to review its current practices and ensure compliance with all government agencies and applicable laws, including employment law.
Email Supervising Attorney Brigid Joyce
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Help a Veteran Start a Health-Related Nonprofit – PLC 24-0096899
Client, a passionate Veteran, has a mission: to educate communities—including local restaurants and their patrons—about the life-changing benefits of eating whole, unrefined foods. With deep conviction, Client believes that the food choices today, and for the past 70 years, have led to preventable health issues and increased morbidity and Client is ready to make a difference. He is now seeking a pro bono attorney to help him incorporate in California and obtain tax-exempt status with the IRS. This is a unique chance to support a Veteran’s vision for healthier communities while helping future generations learn more about food quality and health.
Email Supervising Attorney Brigid Joyce
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No cases available for placement as of today, but please email volunteer@publiclawcenter.org if you are interested in this case type, and we can reach out if a case comes in before the next case list. | |
No cases available for placement as of today, but please email volunteer@publiclawcenter.org if you are interested in this case type, and we can reach out if a case comes in before the next case list. | |
No cases available for placement as of today, but please email volunteer@publiclawcenter.org if you are interested in this case type, and we can reach out if a case comes in before the next case list. | |
No cases available for placement as of today, but please email volunteer@publiclawcenter.org if you are interested in this case type, and we can reach out if a case comes in before the next case list. | |
No cases available for placement as of today, but please email volunteer@publiclawcenter.org if you are interested in this case type, and we can reach out if a case comes in before the next case list. | |
No cases available for placement as of today, but please email volunteer@publiclawcenter.org if you are interested in this case type, and we can reach out if a case comes in before the next case list. | |
No cases available for placement as of today, but please email volunteer@publiclawcenter.org if you are interested in this case type, and we can reach out if a case comes in before the next case list. | |
No cases available for placement as of today, but please email volunteer@publiclawcenter.org if you are interested in this case type, and we can reach out if a case comes in before the next case list. | |
No cases available for placement as of today, but please email volunteer@publiclawcenter.org if you are interested in this case type, and we can reach out if a case comes in before the next case list. | |
No cases available for placement as of today, but please email volunteer@publiclawcenter.org if you are interested in this case type, and we can reach out if a case comes in before the next case list. | |
No cases available for placement as of today, but please email volunteer@publiclawcenter.org if you are interested in this case type, and we can reach out if a case comes in before the next case list. | |
ReENTRY/CONVICTION RELIEF | No cases available for placement as of today, but please email volunteer@publiclawcenter.org if you are interested in this case type, and we can reach out if a case comes in before the next case list. | |
No cases available for placement as of today, but please email volunteer@publiclawcenter.org if you are interested in this case type, and we can reach out if a case comes in before the next case list. | | | | |
