James Steiner
Pro Bono Justice Program

Veterans Legal Institute provides direct, no-cost legal services to low-income veterans and service members. Through the James Steiner Pro Bono Justice Program, VLI expands access to justice by connecting veterans with volunteer attorneys for legal matters that fall outside VLI’s primary practice areas or exceed internal capacity.

Opportunities range from consultations and limited-scope assistance to full representation, helping expand the legal support available to veterans in need.

How the Pro Bono Program Works


VLI assesses incoming applications to identify matters appropriate for pro bono placement. When VLI identifies a suitable opportunity, it connects the veteran with a volunteer attorney for consultation, limited-scope assistance, or full representation when possible.

Throughout the placement, VLI remains a resource for both the veteran and the pro bono attorney, helping support a collaborative and effective experience.

How You Can Get Involved

Pro Bono Advocacy

Provide a consultation, limited-scope assistance, or representation to a veteran in need.

Partnerships

Partner with VLI to expand meaningful pro bono opportunities and legal services for veterans.

Join a Clinic

Participate in a VLI clinic or provide limited-scope legal assistance to veterans in need.

Mentorship & Co-Counseling

Mentor fellow attorneys or collaborate with VLI through co-counseling opportunities.

Interested in getting involved? Explore pro bono opportunities with VLI.

Current Pro Bono Needs

VLI’s current pro bono needs reflect the legal matters most frequently referred through the James Steiner Pro Bono Justice Program.

  • Consumer Law / Bankruptcy
  • SSI/SSDI Applications & Appeals
  • Employment Law Consultations

  • Estate Planning — In-Person Services
  • Family Law

Pro Bono Program Impact

75+

Veteran legal matters placed with pro bono attorneys since January 1, 2026


Clinic Support

VLI’s in-person and remote clinics are staffed by a wide variety of pro bono attorneys.


Areas of Support

Areas with strong support include small business and nonprofit formation, immigration, discharge upgrades, and estate planning.


Partnerships

Partnerships have been formed to operate remote clinics, place cases in certain practice areas, and expand VLI’s reach into new regions and capabilities.

Pro Bono Program Contacts

Scott Lehman, Esq.
Pro Bono Staff Attorney
slehman@vetlegal.org

Reina Kabbara
Pro Bono Coordinator
rkabbara@vetlegal.org

Ready to Get Involved?

Explore pro bono opportunities with Veterans Legal Institute and help expand access to legal services for veterans in need.