Future Planning and Probate Program

The D.C. Bar Pro Bono Center’s Future Planning and Probate Program provides vital legal assistance to low-income residents of Washington, D.C., helping them navigate the complexities of estate planning and probate estate administration. This program is essential for ensuring that individuals can make informed decisions about their future and that the estates of deceased loved ones are properly managed and distributed according to their wishes.

Program Overview

1. Estate Planning:
   • Volunteer attorneys assist clients with drafting essential estate planning documents, including wills, powers of attorney, advance healthcare directives, and trusts. These documents are crucial for clients to ensure their wishes are respected and their loved ones are cared for in the event of illness or death.
2. Probate Assistance:
   • The program also supports clients through the probate process, which involves the legal distribution of a deceased person’s estate. Volunteers help clients understand their roles as personal representatives (executors), file necessary court documents, and navigate the court proceedings required to settle an estate.

Volunteer Roles

As a volunteer with the Future Planning and Probate Program, you will have the opportunity to make a significant impact on the lives of low-income individuals by providing essential legal services. Volunteers can participate in one or both areas of the program, depending on their expertise and/or interest.

• Estate Planning Volunteers: Assist clients in drafting wills and other future planning documents. Training and templates are provided to ensure you have the tools you need to support clients effectively.
• Probate Volunteers: Guide clients through the probate process, from understanding their responsibilities to filing the necessary documents with the court. You will be supported by program staff and mentors.

Training and Support

All volunteers will receive comprehensive training and ongoing support from the D.C. Bar Pro Bono Center. Training sessions cover the legal principles of estate planning and probate, as well as practical skills needed to work effectively with clients. Volunteers also have access to a range of resources, including templates, checklists, and mentorship from experienced attorneys.

Commitment and Requirements

Volunteers are expected to commit to taking on cases through the program within a specific timeframe after completing their training. While the time commitment can vary depending on the complexity of the case, volunteers typically handle one or two cases per year. Attorneys must be licensed to practice law and in good standing with their respective bars.

How to Get Involved

If you’re interested in volunteering with the Future Planning and Probate Program, please complete the volunteer registration form. Once registered, you will be contacted with more information about upcoming training sessions and case assignments.

Download Volunteer Registration Form

For more information, please contact Managing Attorney, Murray Scheel, at [email protected] or 202-780-2593.

FAQs

• Who qualifies for assistance through this program?
  • Low-income residents of Washington, D.C., who need help with estate planning or probate matters.
• Do I need prior experience in probate or estate planning?
  • No prior experience is required. Comprehensive training and support will be provided.
• What resources are available to volunteers?
  • Volunteers have access to training sessions, document templates, checklists, and mentorship.