For Immediate Release

May 9, 2014

Pro Bono Net                                    

CONTACT:

Karin Romans (Pro Bono Net), 212-760-2554, ext. 496 | kromans@probono.net
Brandon Bouchard (Polaris Project), 202-507-7962 
                                              

Polaris Project, Pro Bono Net and the American Bar Association Launch the Human Trafficking Legal Access Center Website

New website increases access to justice for Human Trafficking Survivors
 

WASHINGTON, DC- Last week, Pro Bono Net, Polaris Project, and The American Bar Association, announced the launch of the Human Trafficking Legal Access Center, a website devoted to increasing access to legal services for survivors of human trafficking. For many human trafficking survivors, the civil legal system remains inaccessible.

This site provides essential information and resources to service providers working with survivors. It also connects volunteer attorneys with opportunities and tools to get involved. The site receives support from the McKenna Long & Aldridge Foundation.

"There is a tremendous need to connect human trafficking survivors to pro bono legal services so they can begin the process of rebuilding their lives. When victims leave their trafficking situations, they are often in need of legal representation to keep them safe or to hold their traffickers accountable. The Human Trafficking Legal Access Center will help facilitate the connection between service providers and legal services, so we can significantly increase access to legal aid for survivors. Polaris Project is thrilled to collaborate with Pro Bono Net and the American Bar Association on this endeavor, and are grateful for the support of the McKenna Long & Aldridge Foundation," said Bradley Myles, CEO of Polaris Project. 

The Human Trafficking Legal Access Center brings attorneys and law firms together with non-profit service providers working with survivors of human trafficking. In addition to a calendar of events and trainings, news, and legal cases, the site includes resources for non-profits and resources for pro bono attorneys.

Pro bono attorneys have access to a volunteer opportunities guide featuring service providers that can provide training, mentoring and supervision. Volunteers can also access library of resources on the legal needs of trafficking survivors, as well as a moderated discussion forum to connect with other pro bono lawyers who have represented trafficking survivors. Attorneys looking to participate in the site can sign up at this page. 

The site also gives non-profit service providers a platform to list information about their organization as well as provide contact information for potential volunteer attorneys. Additionally, non-profit service providers have access to a forum where they can share the issues they face in arranging legal counsel for their clients, and to a library of resources including assessment materials and intake forms.

Individuals affiliated with non-profit service providers have two options to participate.  To participate as an individual, you can visit this page and click on the sign up button.  To list your organization in the Pro Bono Opportunities Guide, visit this page and click on "add an organization."

The site leverages a technology platform developed by Pro Bono Net, which is used to support broad-based networks of legal aid, civil rights and pro bono lawyers.

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About Polaris Project
Polaris Project is a leading organization in the global fight against human trafficking and modern-day slavery.  Named after the North Star "Polaris" that guided people escaping slavery along the Underground Railroad, Polaris Project is transforming the way that individuals and communities respond to human trafficking, in the U.S. and globally. By successfully pushing for stronger federal and state laws, operating the National Human Trafficking Resource Center hotline (1-888-373-7888), conducting trainings, and providing vital services to victims of trafficking, Polaris Project creates long-term solutions that move our society closer to a world without slavery.  Learn more atwww.polarisproject.org.

About Pro Bono Net
Pro Bono Net is a national non-profit organization dedicated to increasing access to justice for the disadvantaged.  Through innovative technology solutions and expertise in building and mobilizing justice networks, Pro Bono Net transforms the way legal help reaches the underserved.  Our comprehensive programs, including www.probono.net, www.lawhelp.org and www.lawhelpinteractive.org, enable legal advocates to make a stronger impact, increase volunteer participation, and empower the public with resources and self-help tools to improve their lives.  For more information, please visit www.probono.net.