Mississippi Volunteer Lawyers Project - Jackson, MS

Dedicated Pro Bono Legal Assistance in Mississippi

The Mississippi Volunteer Lawyers Project (MVLP) is a beacon of hope for low-income residents across the state who require legal counsel but cannot afford it. Founded in 1982 as a joint project of The Mississippi Bar and the Legal Services Corporation, MVLP was the nation's first formal association of its kind. Their mission is clear: to provide equal access to justice by connecting qualified volunteer attorneys with citizens in need. If you are struggling with a civil legal matter and need to find a lawyer for free, MVLP is the primary resource for pro bono assistance in Jackson and beyond.

Family Law and Domestic Matters

One of the most critical areas where MVLP serves the community is family law. They understand that legal issues involving family can be emotionally draining and financially impossible for many. Volunteer attorneys provide representation in uncontested matters to help families stabilize and move forward. Their services include:

• Divorce: Assisting with uncontested divorce proceedings to help parties separate amicably and legally.
• Child Custody and Guardianship: Helping relatives and parents secure legal guardianship to ensure the safety and well-being of children.
• Adoption: Facilitating the legal process to bring families together.
• Emancipation: assisting minors in gaining legal independence when appropriate.

Wills and Estate Planning

MVLP also believes that everyone deserves the peace of mind that comes with planning for the future. They offer assistance with simple wills and advanced directives, ensuring that your final wishes are respected and your loved ones are protected. By helping you draft a will, their volunteer lawyers prevent future legal complications for your family.

How It Works

MVLP does not handle criminal cases or fee-generating cases. Instead, they focus on civil matters affecting the daily lives of Mississippians. Potential clients are screened for income eligibility. Once qualified, they are matched with a volunteer attorney who handles the case pro bono. This system has allowed thousands of individuals to receive high-quality legal representation that would otherwise be out of reach. If you need urgent legal help for a civil matter, contacting MVLP is the first step toward justice.

Recognized by the American Bar Association as one of the country's most outstanding pro bono programs, MVLP represents the best of the legal profession's commitment to public service.

Headquartered at the Mississippi Bar Center in downtown Jackson, the project coordinates efforts statewide. They are a non-profit organization dedicated to the principle that the quality of justice you receive should not depend on how much money you have.