Volunteer Attorneys for Rural Nevadans (VARN) – Carson City, NV

Bridging the Justice Gap in Rural Nevada

Volunteer Attorneys for Rural Nevadans (VARN) is a distinguished non-profit law firm based in Carson City, dedicated to serving the legal needs of the rural population. Since its inception in 1996, VARN has mobilized the legal community to provide pro bono services to those who would otherwise be left without representation. The organization focuses primarily on victims of domestic violence and low-income individuals living in Nevada’s rural counties. By coordinating a network of volunteer private attorneys and utilizing their own staff lawyers, VARN ensures that distance and poverty are not barriers to justice. Their office is a safe haven for clients, offering compassionate support during some of the most traumatic times of their lives.

Specialized Pro Bono Services

VARN’s Domestic Violence Victim’s Assistance Project is the cornerstone of their practice, but their services extend to several critical areas:

• Domestic Violence Protection: assisting survivors in obtaining Temporary and Extended Protection Orders (TPO/EPO) to ensure their immediate safety.
• Family Law: Representing victims in divorce and custody matters to help them break free from abusive relationships permanently.
• Immigration Assistance: Helping victims of crime obtain U-Visas and relief under the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA), providing a path to legal status.
• General Civil Law: Through their pro bono referral program, they connect low-income clients with volunteer attorneys for various civil matters, such as guardianships and simple estate planning.

A Community Effort

The success of VARN relies on the generosity of the Nevada legal community. They work closely with local bar associations and the judiciary to identify those in greatest need. For clients, this means they receive high-quality legal representation at no cost. The organization also provides community education to raise awareness about domestic violence and legal rights. Their staff is trained to handle sensitive situations with the utmost confidentiality and care, ensuring that clients feel empowered rather than overwhelmed by the legal process.

providing legal services to victims of domestic violence and the rural poor.

West Side Location

VARN is located in a converted historic property on West John Street, in the quiet residential neighborhood west of downtown Carson City. This discreet location helps ensure the privacy and safety of their clients, many of whom are fleeing dangerous situations. If you need to find a lawyer who understands the unique challenges of rural Nevada, VARN is an invaluable resource.