Frequently Asked Questions
What is Lawyers Without Borders?
An organization that is bringing lawyers together from around the world to give back through pro bono service--supporting rule of law, economic development, conflict resolution, peace building and sustainability in the legal sector throughout the world.
Do you represent individuals?
LWOB does not “represent” individuals. It is not a resource for individuals seeking personal pro bono representation.
What can volunteers for LWOB do?
Volunteers assist via:
- Research: Legal issues, Indicator Impact Frameworks, Roadmaps, Constitutional and transitional legal issues, Human Rights, Information analysis and report writing, Country Research
- Write: Reports, Newsletters, Concept Papers, White Papers, Lawyer Field Guides, Roadmaps and other legal analyses.
- Represent LWOB at events and Conferences [Always self funding]: Human Rights Conferences, United Nations Conferences/Sessions, Educational Programs, Training Programs, pro bono conferences.
- Assess, Observe, Evaluate: Be part of an Assessment or Evaluation Team, Participate in a trial observations, Effect a Rapid Response Intervention, Conduct a post-training evaluation, lead an LWOB In-Country Missions in region to assist with program development, launch, implementation and follow up
- Neutral Observations: Attend and observe trials, conflict situations and tribunal proceedings
- Trial Training: Join LWOB Trial and Mediation Training Teams assisting lawyers and judges with in large scale NITA™ style ("Learning By Doing Method") Training Programs.
- Mediation Training: Train lawyers, trainers and individuals in conflict resolution and negotiation skills. Assist with development of materials and toolkits for mediators.
- Operations: There are a variety of roles you can play in assisting with administration of LWOB: Managing programs, overseeing volunteers or student divisions, fundraising, development, grant writing, website maintenance, graphic design, illustration/art, etc.
As a rule "volunteers" in-house at LWOB are expected to work at our headquarters at least 2-3 days per week or on an as needed basis. There are opportunities for volunteering for LWOB from remote locations, depending upon the nature of the work.
Are you and Avocats sans Frontieres the same organization?
No. There is absolutely no connection between Avocats sans Frontieres (AsF) and Lawyers Without Borders, Inc. LWOB operates in UK, USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Israel, Palestinian Territories and throughout Africa under the name: Lawyers Without Borders (Abogados Sin Fronteras in Spanish speaking nations) and is not affiliated with any AsF operations in those or any other area. There is a group operating as "Lawyers Without Borders Canada"--they are not affiliated with us (LWOB). We appreciate your reporting to us any instances of the use of our name in violation of our trademark.
Are you officially registered as an NGO in other regions?
Why haven't I heard more about LWOB in the media?
If I have contacts in a region or am aware of a group or program that I think LWOB can help how do I go about pursuing my idea with LWOB?
Often LWOB's projects originate through lawyers and individuals who have traveled or otherwise have become aware of a group, region, area or problem that they bring to our attention. While it is helpful if you can also bring a funding source to your project. However, failure of funding should not dissuade you from contacting us. With each year LWOB becomes more adept at finding funding for worthwhile projects that further our goal to put lawyers to work, pro bono, to make a difference. LWOB's Executive Director and Founder is very accessible and would be pleased to discuss your project ideas with you.
Are you connected with Medecins sans Frontieres (Doctors Without Borders)?
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