Volunteer Opportunities
Get involved
The MBA allows for easily accessible and organized opportunities for attorneys to get involved in their communities. Professionals appreciate these outlets to get involved in their own and other communities across the commonwealth.
For more information about any of these programs, fill out our Volunteer Opportunities Menu, or contact the MBA Community Services Department directly at (617) 338-0695 or via e-mail.
- Conversations
In addition to its regular community service programs, the MBA frequently offers discussions that are initiated at the request of the association’s president and officers.
- Dial-A-Lawyer
On the first Wednesday of each month, attorneys volunteer at the MBA Boston headquarter by providing free basic legal information by phone to callers between the hours of 5:30-7:30 p.m. Questions cover a wide range of legal topics. Additionally, twice a year the program is offered specifically to the general public in Western Massachusetts.
- Elder Law Education Program
During May, in celebration of Law Day, many MBA members throughout the state volunteer to speak at their local senior center or council on aging on various elder-law subjects. Topics range from basic elder legal issues to more substantive areas. ELEP is co-sponsored by the Massachusetts Chapter of the National Association of Elder Law Attorneys.
- Foreclosure Legal Assistance
In July 2007, Massachusetts Attorney General Martha Coakley, in partnership with a number of organizations, announced the establishment of a Pro Bono Foreclosure Assistance Hotline. The attorney general continues to seek additional qualified attorneys who are willing to represent indigent homeowners, particularly in the areas outside Greater Boston.
- Job Shadow
Would you like to help students broaden their understanding of the law, introduce them to the variety of careers available in the legal field and foster their respect for the legal system? If so, please consider participating in Job Shadow Day by volunteering to have a young person “shadow” you for one day as you work in the office, go to court, talk with colleagues and more. Job Shadow Day is a fun way to shed light on the legal world.
- Mock Trial
Every year, members of the MBA serve as coaches and judges for the Mock Trial Program, while thousands of high school students across Massachusetts participate. Students prepare a hypothetical case and then test their skills as lawyers and witnesses in a simulated courtroom competition.
- Pro Bono Opportunities Guide
The Pro Bono Opportunities Guide is a comprehensive listing of statewide agencies that are in need of pro bono assistance from attorneys, law students or paralegals. Copies of the guide can be obtained from the MBA Community Services Department. The guide is also available online.
- Speakers' Bureau
The MBA’s Speakers Bureau is a great opportunity to share your expertise with local, civic, business, educational and social organizations. Presentations are provided free to the public. All areas of practice are in demand.
- Volunteer Opportunities Menu
The MBA offers a wide array of projects with varying time commitments. The list below includes more than a dozen ways that you can volunteer your time, with opportunities ranging from serving on a committee or joining a practice group, to judging a mock trial competition or teaching a CLE seminar. Your involvement provides a chance for you to give back to the legal community while working with fellow MBA members.