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July 1, 2026

Hi,

One of the things I enjoy most about this role is helping connect attorneys with matters that align with their interests and experience. Every case on this list represents a client, nonprofit, or small business waiting for the right match. As you browse this month's opportunities, I hope one of them stands out to you. And if you're considering taking on one of them, please know that PLC is here to support you. We provide one-on-one technical assistance, answer questions as they arise, and, in many practice areas, offer substantive resources such as sample pleadings, guides, and other reference materials to help you feel confident throughout the representation.

Unless otherwise noted, clients in these cases are looking for full-scope representation. If you're interested in a limited-scope matter that isn't featured on this month's list, or if you're looking for a different type of case altogether, please don't hesitate to reach out. I often have additional opportunities available and would be happy to help connect you with a matter that aligns with your interests.

If you and your colleagues are interested in providing limited-scope services together, we also offer one-day and half-day clinics in a variety of practice areas. Some clinics can be scheduled on a recurring basis, while others are offered quarterly or just a few times each year, depending on client need. It's a great opportunity to work together, assist several clients in just a few hours, and make an immediate impact. If you'd like to see our Clinic Menu, I'd be happy to send it your way.

Thank you, as always, for the many ways you support our clients and our mission. Your commitment continues to make a meaningful difference throughout our community.

Wishing you a wonderful Fourth of July and a great start to the summer!

Sincerely,

Angela Mestre

Pro Bono Coordinator

FINANCIAL/INCOME PROTECTION

Contractor Fraud and Financial Elder Abuse on Cancer Patient – PLC 26-0125447

Client, a 69-year-old single woman, was approached by a salesperson at her home in Fall 2024. Salesperson told her about a government program that would provide free roof repairs and a solar battery to complement her existing solar panels. Salesperson presented an electronic device and asked Client to sign. Client advised him that she lived on a fixed income, was unable to read, and asked him to explain the documents she was signing. Salesperson told Client that she was authorizing roof repairs and installation of a new solar battery to power her existing solar panels. He further explained that, aside from a few monthly payments ranging from approximately $130 to $200, state rebates would cover the roof repairs and solar battery "almost entirely." He repeatedly assured Client "not to worry" about the payments because the promised rebates would cover the cost of the work. Client informed Salesperson that she was undergoing cancer treatment at the time. When workers arrived to perform the project, she was in the hospital receiving treatment. After the work was supposedly completed, Client discovered that the roof repairs were unfinished, the roof was leaking, fascia boards were missing, and rainwater was entering the eaves. The solar battery also failed to function and has never powered her solar system. She later learned that permits had not been obtained for the work.

Soon thereafter, Client began receiving bills claiming she owed approximately $40,000 for the project. A separate contractor later provided a written estimate of just $5,500 for comparable roof repairs. Client believes Salesperson took advantage of her age, medical condition, inability to read, and financial circumstances, and suspects her signatures were forged on financing documents. She states that she never received a copy of a financing agreement, was unaware she was entering into a $40,000 financing contract, was not provided the required cancellation notices, and never received any of the promised government rebates. The finance company is now seeking approximately $51,000. Although the contractor has offered to settle the dispute for $8,000, Client is reluctant to enter into a settlement agreement contractor. A pro bono attorney sought to assist this vulnerable senior in challenging the alleged financing agreement and pursuing claims arising from the contractor's conduct.

Email Directing Attorney Suzanne Iazetta

Recovery of Assets Following Alleged Elder Financial Abuse – PLC 25-0122007

Client is a 74-year-old Farsi-speaker who suffered a financial loss after the proceeds from the sale of her home and her personal belongings—including furniture, clothing, and jewelry—were transferred to her daughter in 2023 without Client’s intent or authorization. Client reports that these transfers were fraudulent and is seeking a pro bono attorney to assist in recovering both the funds and her belongings. Client’s son is available to assist with interpretation and email communication as needed. Your assistance will help Client pursue recovery of her assets and protect her financial security.

Email Staff Attorney Morgan Padgett

Elder Financial Abuse Matter Involving Alleged Fraud – PLC 26-0123730

Client is an 83-year-old woman on a fixed income who has recently begun experiencing memory issues. In July 2025, Client contacted a plumbing company to address a backed-up sink. After completing the initial repair, the company continued to contact Client to have additional work done around the home. Client lives alone and believes she was targeted for services she did not need. The company facilitated a loan with a finance company, ran up her credit card, and asked Client for various payments, which she made via check. Client is now in debt $160,000. Client reports that she was never provided copies of the loan agreements, and after Client’s daughter and son—who hold power of attorney—became involved, they obtained four loan agreements bearing electronic signatures that Client states she did not authorize or make. No debt collection lawsuits have been filed to date. Your assistance will help Client challenge fraudulent debt and work toward financial recovery.

Email Staff Attorney Morgan Padgett

Chapter 7 Relief from Mounting Unsecured Debt – PLC 25-0118277

Client has approximately $52,000 in unsecured debt and is experiencing anxiety from ongoing collection activity and the risk of potential lawsuits. Client’s employment situation has recently stabilized, and he is now seeking assistance with filing a Chapter 7 bankruptcy to address his debt and move forward on more secure financial footing. Your assistance will help Client obtain meaningful debt relief and achieve a fresh financial start.

Email Senior Staff Attorney Lydia Tse

IMMIGRATION

U-VISA

Mother of Five Seeks U-Visa Following Years of Domestic Violence – PLC 26-0125202*

Client, a woman from Mexico, is seeking pro bono assistance with a U-Visa application based on more than a decade of physical, sexual, and psychological abuse by her husband. Client recently obtained full custody of her five children as a result of her husband's abuse of the children. She reported the abuse to law enforcement and has obtained both a police report and a criminal protective order against her husband. Client is actively participating in therapy alongside her children and is committed to supporting their well-being and future. Please consider assisting this mother as she seeks immigration relief and a more secure future for her family. Client is a Spanish speaker and will require an interpreter. 

Email Senior Staff Attorney Devin Chatterton

*NOTE: For U-Visa cases at PLC, the pro bono attorney's commitment is to 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.

A Pathway to Protection and Immigration Relief for a Mother of Two – PLC 25-0121248*

Client is a 50-year-old mother of two from Mexico seeking legal assistance following a serious incident of domestic abuse by her former partner and the father of her children. Her children are currently receiving treatment related to the impact of what they experienced and witnessed. Client is a Spanish speaker and will require interpretation services. She is seeking pro bono representation to pursue a U-Visa, which would provide a pathway to lawful status and greater stability for her and her family. This is an opportunity to support Client in securing safety, long-term security, and meaningful opportunities for her family.

Email Staff Attorney Frances Tian

*NOTE: For U-Visa cases at PLC, the pro bono attorney's commitment is to 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.

Build Stability and Secure Protection for a Mother and Her Children – PLC 25-0119923*

Client is a 38-year-old woman from Mexico seeking assistance with a U Visa application. She previously obtained a signed U Visa certification from the District Attorney’s Office and has recently separated from her partner after experiencing years of domestic violence. Client is actively engaged in therapy as a result of the abuse she and her children suffered. She is a Spanish speaker, and interpretation services are available. Your assistance will help Client pursue lawful status and continue building a stable future for herself and her children.

Email Senior Staff Attorney Devin Chatterton

*NOTE: For U-Visa cases at PLC, the pro bono attorney's commitment is to 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.

Help a Long-Term Survivor Pursue Immigration Relief and Move Forward – PLC 26-0124523*

Client is seeking pro bono assistance with a U Visa application based on domestic violence by her spouse of 30 years. She experienced physical, verbal, and sexual abuse throughout the marriage, including harm that resulted in a lasting injury and potential nerve damage for which she is currently receiving treatment. Client is bilingual in English and Spanish and is the sole applicant. By taking this case, you can help Client pursue immigration relief that supports her ability to remain in the United States.

Email Co-Supervising Attorney, Precious Odum

*NOTE: For U-Visa cases at PLC, the pro bono attorney's commitment is to 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.

Support a Parent Seeking a Fresh Start for Her Family – PLC 26-0123366*

Client is seeking pro bono assistance with a U Visa application based on domestic violence by her former partner. She currently has a restraining order in place, which has been violated in the past. Client is a mother of two boys and is pursuing this application as an important step toward establishing lawful status in the United States. Your assistance will help Client move forward with her application and continue providing care and support for her children.

Email Senior Staff Attorney Devin Chatterton

*NOTE: For U-Visa cases at PLC, the pro bono attorney's commitment is to 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.

VAWA

Mother Working to Build a Brighter Future for Her Daughters – PLC 26-0129613

Client is a 47-year-old mother of two U.S. citizen daughters seeking pro bono assistance with a VAWA petition. An English speaker, Client is eligible for VAWA relief based on domestic violence perpetrated by her husband. The abuse included physical violence, threats involving firearms, and abuse directed at her daughters, one of whom has developmental disabilities. Client has evidence supporting her case, including police reports and a temporary restraining order. She previously held lawful status in the United States but no longer does. Through VAWA relief, Client hopes to remain in the United States and continue providing for her daughters.

Email Senior Staff Attorney Devin Chatterton

Guide a Mother Through Adjustment of Status – PLC 26-0126182

Applicant is a 32-year-old woman from Mexico and the mother of four United States citizen children. She is a DACA recipient and has a visual disability. She is seeking pro bono assistance with a VAWA-based Adjustment of Status (VAWA-AOS) following abuse by her former spouse, a United States citizen. During the marriage, the applicant experienced ongoing psychological and emotional mistreatment, as well as incidents of physical violence. Her former spouse frequently used her immigration status as a way to insult and emotionally abuse her. Client is bilingual in English and Spanish and is the sole applicant. By taking this case, you can help Client move forward and secure lawful permanent residence through the protections available under the Violence Against Women Act. 

Email Staff Attorney Frida Franco

Assist Client with Path Forward Under VAWA – PLC 26-0123551

Client is a 33-year-old woman from Mexico and the mother of a 5-year old daughter. She is seeking assistance with a VAWA petition based on domestic violence by her former spouse, a U.S. citizen. The years of abuse to both Client and her daughter resulted in an emergency protective order and a restraining order, and Client is in the process of finalizing her divorce. By taking this case, you will be able to support Client in navigating the legal process and opening the door to new opportunities for herself and her daughter. Client is bilingual in English and Spanish and is the sole applicant. 

Email Senior Staff Attorney Devin Chatterton

VAWA-Based Adjustment of Status for Survivor of Domestic Violence – PLC 25-0114494

Client is a bilingual (English/Spanish) young woman from Mexico seeking assistance with a VAWA-based Adjustment of Status application. Client is in the process of divorcing her U.S. citizen spouse and is pursuing immigration relief based on domestic violence experienced during the marriage. Throughout the relationship, Client was subjected to severe psychological and emotional abuse, as well as physical violence. Client’s spouse exerted significant control over her daily activities and stalked her after she left him. Client previously had DACA but was unable to renew her status due to the trauma she experienced during the relationship and the lack of financial independence and ability to pay the renewal fee. Client is now seeking a pro bono attorney to assist in moving forward through the VAWA-AOS process.

Email Co-Supervising Attorney, Josie Roberto

Defending Unlawful Rent Increases Impacting a Senior Tenant – PLC 26-0125884

A disabled senior is seeking justice after being subjected to multiple rent increases. Living on a fixed income, Client is a Section 8 voucher holder residing in a Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) property. Despite clear regulations limiting rent increases, he has faced repeated and unsupported hikes that now threaten his ability to remain in his home. Over the past year, Client’s rent has increased by 23%, and he has recently been served with an additional notice proposing an 11% increase. These increases are not only unsustainable, but they also appear to exceed limits set by the California Tax Credit Allocation Committee (CTCAC) and the Tenant Protection Act (TPA). If not reversed, these rent increases place Client at immediate risk of displacement and loss of housing stability. He has made good-faith efforts to resolve these issues directly with the landlord but has received no relief. Client is seeking pro bono counsel to hold Landlord accountable for failing to comply with rent increase restrictions and to pursue recovery for the unlawful increases already imposed. This matter may also present an opportunity to explore litigation against local housing authorities.

Email Senior Supervising Attorney Iraida Oliva

Fighting for a Safe Home: Breach of the Warranty of Habitability – PLC 26-0130277

Client is a working father living with his wife and two children in an apartment complex where their health and safety are at risk. Despite repeated requests to the landlord, the unit is affected by serious habitability issues, including infestations, mold, water damage, non-functioning smoke detectors, a broken kitchen vent and stovetop, infestation-damaged carpeting, and a leaking bathroom ceiling. These conditions are impacting the health of Client and his family, and Client’s doctor has recommended urgent remediation to prevent further complications. As a result of these conditions, Client has been forced to discard and replace essential household items—including blankets, pillows, and furniture—creating a significant financial burden. Client has made multiple attempts to address these issues with Landlord but has been met with threats of eviction if complaints continue. Client also reports that Landlord has removed and discarded personal property without permission. Client is seeking a pro bono attorney to hold Landlord accountable for these unsafe living conditions, secure necessary repairs, and pursue damages for the harm caused. This is an opportunity to advocate for a family facing serious housing instability and to help ensure they can live in a safe and healthy home.

Email Staff Attorney Maggie Woodruff

Help a Food Experience Startup Navigate International Expansion — PLC 26-0140130

Client is a startup LLC based in Orange County that offers food-based classes and community experiences to visitors and locals. PLC is assisting Client with local licensing and compliance for operations in Orange County and California. However, the founder has a broader vision to scale the business through an online platform that would allow others to replicate the model in locations around the world. Pro bono counsel with international or global scaling experience will advise Client on the legal framework needed to support that expansion, which may include entity structure, platform terms and operator agreements, intellectual property protections across jurisdictions, and regulatory considerations for operating in multiple countries. Your assistance will help lay the legal foundation for an innovative Orange County startup to expand its unique business model to communities around the world.

Email Supervising Attorney Brigid Joyce

Assist a Housing Nonprofit in Connection with a Commercial Lease — PLC 25-0116542

Client is an Orange County nonprofit organization dedicated to helping families experiencing or at risk of homelessness achieve lasting housing stability. Through homelessness prevention, short-term housing, individualized case management, and ongoing family support services, Client empowers parents to build self-sufficiency and create a stable future for their children. Client seeks legal representation in connection with a potential arbitration arising from a commercial lease dispute. The dispute concerns the frustration of the lease's purpose caused in part by the landlord's failure to take necessary action under the lease. Your assistance will help Client navigate a commercial lease dispute so it can continue focusing on the families it serves.

Email Supervising Attorney Brigid Joyce

Help a Small Business Owner Hire Their First Employee – PLC 26-0133596

Client, a sole proprietor operating a specialty trade contracting business serving residential and commercial clients, with plans to expand into automotive services, is seeking an employment law attorney to advise on the legal requirements for hiring their first employee. By taking this case, you will consult with Client on foundational employment obligations, including proper worker classification, new hire documentation and reporting, wage and hour compliance, and mandatory workplace notices under California law, and may assist with drafting any employment documents needed to implement that guidance. This matter is well-suited for any attorney with general employment law experience.

Email Supervising Attorney Brigid Joyce

Help a Community Nonprofit Build a Health Law Compliance Framework – PLC 26-0133101

Client, an established nonprofit organization based in Orange County providing direct community services, including mental health support and health screenings, is seeking an attorney with health law and/or nonprofit compliance experience to assist with reviewing and drafting internal policies, procedures, and related documents to ensure compliance with HIPAA, Medi-Cal, Medicare, and other applicable laws. Client serves all age groups and partners with other community providers, making a sound compliance infrastructure essential to protecting the individuals they serve and supporting their mission of advancing health equity in the region. This matter may involve document drafting, and is well-suited for an attorney with experience in health law, nonprofit governance, or regulatory compliance.

Email Supervising Attorney Brigid Joyce

Trademark Attorney Needed to Respond to USPTO Office Action – PLC 26-0140823

Client is a small business owner seeking to register a trade name with the USPTO. They have received a Nonfinal Office Action refusing registration on the grounds that the applied-for mark is merely descriptive under Section 2(e)(1) of the Trademark Act. The USPTO examining attorney found that the mark's individual components -- and their combination -- describe a feature or characteristic of the identified services, and declined to register the mark on the Principal Register. A volunteer trademark attorney is needed to assist Client in preparing and filing a timely response to the Office action. Client needs help developing arguments and evidence to overcome the Section 2(e)(1) merely descriptive refusal; evaluating whether the mark has acquired distinctiveness; and advising Client on alternative registration strategies, including amendment to allege use as a precondition to seeking placement on the Supplemental Register. This matter is well-suited for an attorney with experience in trademark law.

Email Supervising Attorney Brigid Joyce

Assist a Recently Formed Nonprofit With Employment Law Compliance for On-site Residential Managers – PLC 26-0127591

Client, a local nonprofit dedicated to supporting individuals in recovery through safe, structured sober living environments, needs assistance in reviewing its internal procedures and policies regarding the employment of on-site residential managers to ensure it is in compliance with applicable wage and hour and other California laws. By volunteering, you will be helping strengthen operational practices to support the organization’s mission of providing stable housing and recovery-focused community support.

Email Supervising Attorney Brigid Joyce

Help and Arts-related Nonprofit with Review of Its Employee Handbook – PLC 26-0141978

Client is an Orange County nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering underserved youth and communities through arts education, mentorship, and creative enrichment programs. Through community-based initiatives and artistic engagement opportunities, Client seeks to foster personal growth, build confidence, and create accessible pathways for youth development and self-expression. Client is seeking legal assistance to review and provide guidance regarding its employee handbook and related workplace policies. Assistance will help ensure Client’s employment practices are clear, compliant, and aligned with best practices as it continues to expand its programming and community impact.

Email Supervising Attorney Brigid Joyce

Help a Client Form a New Nonprofit That Provides Support to New Parents – PLC 26-0134183

Client wants to form a new 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to supporting new and expecting parents in South Orange County through meaningful connection, emotional encouragement, and practical assistance. Client’s mission is to foster community, reduce isolation, and provide resources and support services that empower mothers during pregnancy and parents in early parenthood. Client needs help with the formation of the nonprofit entity, including guidance regarding organizational structure, governance, and foundational corporate documents, along with obtaining tax exempt status with the IRS and FTB. This is a great way to support new parents in the community during a difficult transitional period.

Email Supervising Attorney Brigid Joyce

Assist a Housing Nonprofit with a Current Issue It Is Facing with Former Residents

– PLC 26-0141981

Client operates transitional housing programs that provide supportive housing and rehabilitative services to individuals participating in structured recovery and community reintegration programs. Participants reside in program-operated homes pursuant to program agreements and intake documentation that outline behavioral expectations, compliance requirements, and grounds for discharge from the program. Client is seeking pro bono legal assistance regarding participant removal and occupancy enforcement issues that arise when discharged program participants refuse to vacate program housing. Specifically, Client seeks guidance regarding the legal distinction between program participants and traditional residential tenants, including whether discharged participants may properly be removed without formal unlawful detainer proceedings. Assistance may include reviewing participant intake and policy documentation, advising on applicable California law, and preparing guidance materials or correspondence that may be used to help clarify the organization’s program structure and legal rights to local law enforcement agencies and other third parties.

Email Supervising Attorney Brigid Joyce

Assist Nonprofit Wildlife Sanctuary Board Member in Challenging Restitution Demand

– PLC 26-0125742

Client is a volunteer nonprofit board member who offered his family’s property as a satellite rehabilitation site for a 501(c)(3) wildlife rescue organization. Following an inspection by Fish & Wildlife, animals housed at the facility were seized and transferred to a private wildlife care center. Client was subsequently charged in Orange County Superior Court with animal-related offenses. As part of the case, the prosecution is seeking approximately $120,000 in restitution, largely payable to the private care center that received the animals. Based on Client’s review of the care center’s publicly available financial records, including IRS Form 990 filings and municipal contracts, the requested amount may be inflated by as much as 20 to 50 times the center’s own reported per-animal costs. Client is seeking a pro bono attorney to prepare a detailed restitution challenge analysis and opinion. This would include reviewing the billing, benchmarking costs against the care center’s public filings, and researching applicable case law for use by the defense attorney. The final opinion is needed by July 1, 2026. This representation does not anticipate litigation or an on-record appearance. By taking this case, you can help ensure that any restitution sought is grounded in verified costs, while supporting a longtime community volunteer who dedicated his property to wildlife conservation.

Email Supervising Attorney Brigid Joyce

Structuring a Nonprofit-University Partnership – PLC 26-0126313

Client is an established nonprofit organization currently in discussions with a university to form a strategic partnership aimed at expanding the organization’s reach and deepening its community impact. The proposed arrangement contemplates transferring certain assets and intellectual property to the university, while allowing Client to retain select rights associated with those assets. Client is seeking pro bono legal assistance to (1) evaluate whether the proposed arrangement complies with California law, including any potential impact on its tax-exempt status; and (2) draft a contract, memorandum of understanding, or partnership agreement that safeguards the nonprofit’s assets, preserves its mission, and supports a successful long-term collaboration. This matter would be well-suited for a transactional attorney with experience in nonprofit law, higher education partnerships, or intellectual property licensing.

Email Supervising Attorney Brigid Joyce

Existing Housing Nonprofit Needs Advice and Counsel Regarding Privacy Best Practices

– PLC 26-0136022(B)

Client is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering individuals facing housing homelessness, hunger, and trauma—particularly women, children, and families—by providing safe housing, food assistance, and supportive services. Through a holistic approach, Client offers transitional living programs, mental health support, life skills training, and community outreach, helping participants build stability and move toward self-sufficiency. Client works to restore dignity, create opportunity, and foster long-term positive change for some of the community’s most vulnerable populations. Client is seeking a pro bono attorney for advice and counsel regarding its privacy practices, particularly in connection with the collection and transmission of sensitive client data, including health and financial information, through online platforms.

Email Supervising Attorney Brigid Joyce

Help Launch a California Lifeguard Association Promoting Training and Water Safety

– PLC 26-0125223

Client is a professional lifeguard seeking to establish a California nonprofit association to support, organize, and advance the interests of lifeguards through training, professional development, advocacy, and public safety initiatives. The proposed organization is intended to be structured similarly to an existing State Lifeguard Association and to serve as a replicable model for future regional and statewide lifeguard associations. Client seeks pro bono legal assistance to form a California nonprofit public benefit corporation, develop governance documents and membership structure, and advise on obtaining federal and state tax-exempt status. Counsel may also provide guidance on structuring considerations related to membership associations, liability protections, and regulatory compliance. By taking this case, you can help establish a legally sound framework for a public safety-focused organization that aims to strengthen professional standards and community water safety across the state and beyond.

Email Supervising Attorney Brigid Joyce

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