I have a client sitting in my office, and I would like to take their case pro bono. Can I get malpractice coverage for this case, or do I have to rely on my own coverage (if I have it)?

If you have a client you want to assist pro bono, but you want (or need) support from a civil legal aid organization, you may be able to get a “reverse referral.” To do this, contact your local pro bono or civil legal aid organization before you start working on the client’s case, ask what their process is for doing a reverse referral, and promptly submit the required information. The organization will screen the client and case to be sure that they are eligible for that organization’s services and, if eligible, refer the client back to you as a pro bono matter.

The following organizations have said that they would consider doing a “reverse referral” if the case and client meet their eligibility requirements:

• Ability Allies
• Indiana Justice Project
• Indiana Legal Services
• Pro Bono Indiana
• Volunteer Lawyer Program of Northeast Indiana