LACBA Counsel for Justice Board Listing

LACBA Counsel for Justice promotes access to justice for those in underserved communities seeking to assert their legal rights. Our pro bono-based projects bridge the justice gap for those in underserved communities seeking safety, stability, and justice. CFJ engages volunteer attorneys to provide direct legal services, empowering people with the knowledge and support they need to effectively navigate their legal challenges.

Values:

• Commitment to Service: We build a community of legal professionals dedicated to pro bono service, creating positive change for the Los Angeles community.
• Empowerment Through Advocacy: Believing in the transformative power of legal advocacy, we empower clients to navigate complex challenges and build pathways to stability, safety, and hope.
• Collaboration and Connection: We work closely with volunteers, organizations, and community leaders to foster partnerships that drive meaningful change toward a more just society.
• Integrity and Professional Growth: We promote integrity and growth through professional development, ensuring that everyone involved—clients, volunteers, and staff—benefits and thrives.
• Respect and Dignity: We strive to create a culture of respect, where every client, volunteer, and partner feels valued and supported.

DEI Statement:

As the charitable arm of the Los Angeles County Bar Association (LACBA), LACBA Counsel for Justice is dedicated to upholding the principles outlined in LACBA’s Statement of Goals and Principles for the Legal Profession with Respect to Recruitment, Retention, and Promotion of Attorneys that are Members of Historically Underrepresented Groups. We recognize that diversity and inclusion are essential to our mission of promoting access to justice and ensuring that legal support is available to all members of our community, particularly those who are underserved. We believe that an inclusive organization not only reflects the diversity of Los Angeles County but also strengthens our ability to serve our clients effectively. As such, we remain dedicated to these principles and are committed to taking actionable steps toward a more diverse and equitable legal profession.

Programs/Services:

History: LACBA Counsel for Justice (CFJ) was established in 2014 to unify the charitable activities of Los Angeles County Bar Association (LACBA) under a single nonprofit entity. It was born from the proactive leadership and dedication of volunteer lawyers who recognized pressing community needs and took action to address them. These community leaders organized the legal community to improve access to justice for underserved populations in Los Angeles. CFJ continues to stand out for its model of engaging pro bono volunteers to provide on-site, direct legal assistance at government facilities where the public seeks help, such as the Los Angeles Central Courthouse, the Federal Building, and LA County Patriotic Hall.

The Program: Through its long-established projects, CFJ addresses some of the most critical legal issues in Los Angeles County, where underrepresented communities navigate complex and challenging legal systems with limited support and resources. These projects include assisting survivors of domestic violence seeking restraining orders, immigrants pursuing legal status, and U.S. military veterans navigating housing and benefits systems.

The Immigration Project, established in 1975, operates as a walk-in clinic located in the downtown LA federal building alongside the Immigration Courts and I.C.E., serving over 7,500 people annually. Over the years, it has become an integral part of the immigration services infrastructure, often serving as the first stop for new arrivals beginning their U.S. immigration process. Immigration staff and volunteers conduct individual consultations, assist with a variety of immigration forms, and make connections to supportive services.

The Domestic Violence Project, founded in 1986, provides courthouse-based assistance for domestic violence restraining order cases, offering legal information, help with forms, and referrals. This project serves approximately 2,500 litigants annually and receives referrals from the court, law enforcement, and domestic violence service providers, ensuring timely legal support for victims.

Established in 2011, the Veterans Project serves about 250 veterans each year, offering legal aid to remove barriers to employment and stability. Services include pre-eviction advocacy, unlawful detainer assistance, and a record clearing clinic assisting veterans to clear outstanding traffic citations, warrants, and court debt and petition the court for dismissals of past criminal convictions.

Ideal Candidate:

Our ideal candidate:

Is Mission-Driven: Demonstrates a strong commitment to advocating for vulnerable populations and alignment with CFJ’s mission of promoting social justice.
Brings a Diverse Perspective: Brings a unique perspective, ideally from an underrepresented racial, ethnic, or socioeconomic background, or with lived experience related to domestic violence, immigration, or military service.
Is a Strategic Thinker: Contributes forward-thinking insights to guide CFJ’s growth and strategic direction.
Is Collaborative and Engaged: Actively participates in board meetings, fundraising, and oversight to support CFJ’s sustainability.
Is Connected and Resourceful: Holds or is interested in developing connections within the legal, nonprofit, or business sectors to expand CFJ’s reach.
Has Specialized Skills: Offers expertise in or passion for finance, accounting, marketing, fundraising, or governance to strengthen CFJ’s infrastructure and strategic goals.

Why you should consider joining this board:

Make a Lasting Impact on Los Angeles: CFJ envisions a Los Angeles where everyone has access to the legal support they need. As a board member, you’ll contribute to a legacy of service that unites the legal community around a shared goal of equality and opportunity.
Be a Leader in the Legal Community: CFJ is the charitable arm of the Los Angeles County Bar Association, bringing together a network of distinguished legal professionals committed to social justice.
Professional Development: Serving on the CFJ board enhances your leadership experience, providing insights into nonprofit governance, strategic planning, and community-based legal services.
Expand Your Professional Network: Board membership connects you with a diverse community of legal professionals, advocates, and community leaders. This network can support your professional growth, offering connections that are valuable throughout your legal career.
Support Pro Bono Initiatives and Events: Board members are instrumental in highlighting the contributions of volunteers and in encouraging the legal community to step forward in support of a more just L.A.

Fundraising/Financial Commitment:

All Board members are asked to make an annual financial contribution that reflects a meaningful personal commitment and assist in fundraising by securing donations and/or sponsorships as detailed in each Director’s engagement plan.

Additional Information:

None Provided

To Apply:

Year Founded:

2014

Service Region(s):

Los Angeles Area

Service Area(s):

Domestic Violence, Housing, Immigration, Veterans

Annual Revenue:

$1 million – $5 million

Employees:

11-25

Board Members:

More than 25

Length of Board Term:

Three years, with the option to serve multiple terms.

Board Meeting Type:

Hybrid (both virtual and in-person)

Service Per Month Expected:

Less than 5 hours

Board Meetings Per Year:

Six meetings, two of which are typically in person, and an annual strategy session.

LACBA Counsel for Justice

Mission Statement