How do I get a Pro Bono Case?
GLA sends out a bi-weekly newsletter with available arts cases. The case list is also available on our website on the Available Arts Cases page. If you see a case that interests you, just send us an email at cases@glarts.org with the ID number and Title of the case.
Additionally, we may reach out to you directly by email when we have a case we feel is a good fit with your practice area. In these instances, the cases will appear the same way they do in the newsletter. If you are able to assist, you can accept the case simply by replying to the email. GLA will only contact you for the areas of practice you indicated on the Attorney Member Form.
What happens once I “accept” a Pro Bono Case?
If you agree to take a pro bono case, GLA will first forward you both the client’s and adverse parties’ name and contact information so you can properly run a conflicts check.
We ask that you complete the conflicts check and let GLA know the outcome of the check within ten (10) business days. If it will take longer, please notify GLA of the delay. After ten (10) business days, we will place the client back into the attorney pool.
Should the client pass conflicts, we will forward your contact information to the client, who will contact you directly within three (3) business days.
You will also receive an email officially assigning you the case that contains the client’s contact information and several documents.
What if the client does not contact me?
GLA generally follows up with clients three (3) business days after notifying them of the assignment to ensure they have contacted you.
However, if you do not hear from the client within the allotted time, please contact GLA via email to notify us, and we will attempt to contact the client to have them reach out.
What is GLA’s role once the client contacts me?
Once the client contacts you, GLA steps out of the picture. All services are strictly between you and the client. GLA does not have an attorney-client relationship with the member. GLA’s only involvement will be monthly update emails (quarterly for patents and trademarks) that we use to keep track of how cases are progressing generally. This is to ensure that cases do not get forgotten and keeps our database current.
Additionally, because GLA does not share this relationship with its clients, we do not retain copies of client materials, including financial documents, contracts, etc.
Am I the client’s general counsel?
No, cases are assigned on an issue-by-issue basis. You are not required to assist the client with new legal issues on a pro bono basis.
While you are welcome to assist clients with new issues that arise, related or not, we set the expectation with clients that you will work solely on the issue(s) assigned and are not acting as general counsel.
Clients should contact GLA for any new issues that arise.
What do I do when I complete my representation?
At the completion of your representation, you must fill out our online Pro Bono Report. The link to this report is included in your initial assignment email and will be provided in our monthly update emails.
The completion of this form is necessary for several reasons. GLA uses this information to track the hours and value of the services GLA provides, which helps us obtain grants to continue our work and discover ways to improve our services.