The Program
Pro se plaintiffs in Civil Rights Act, Employment, Immigration, and other cases often apply for the appointment of counsel. This Panel has been established for the purpose of providing counsel for individuals who do not have the means to obtain counsel on their own. A Screening Committee of lawyers review the merits of each case in which a plaintiff applies for counsel. The court generally appoints counsel only in cases approved by the Screening Committee.
The Benefits
Panel participation offers a unique opportunity for experience in civil litigation in federal court and has proven to be very beneficial to newer lawyers. In addition, the court has funds available to defray some expenses, and the King County Bar Association provides malpractice coverage for Panel attorneys.
If interested, please fill out the Pro Bono Application (PDF) and return it to the Clerk's Office. Be sure to also read the Pro Bono Plan (PDF) and Pro Bono Panel Rules (PDF).
Questions?
You may contact the following people if you have questions:
Rose McCarty
Pro Bono Committee Co-Chair
Phone: (206) 757-8193
rmccarty1247@gmail.com
Emily Nero
Pro Bono Coordinator
United States District Court
700 Stewart Street, Suite 2310
Seattle, WA 98101
Phone: (206) 370-8482
emily_nero@wawd.uscourts.gov