Michigan Litigation Assistance Partnership Project (MI-LAPP)

The State Bar of Michigan (SBM) Pro Bono Initiative (PBI) formed MI-LAPP in order to meet the needs of low-income clients and engage willing volunteer attorneys to assist them. MI-LAPP currently consists of three programs, briefly described below, and is currently looking into additional programs in order to better meet the needs of low-income clients and volunteer attorneys wishing to get involved in pro bono.

Qualified Domestic Relations Order (QDRO) Program

Through a panel of QDRO professionals, the program is able to refer QDROs to volunteer drafters for completion. Without the program, many low-income individuals would be unable to obtain a QDRO, possibly preventing them from receiving retirement benefits (money) that they are legally entitled to receive. The benefits received can be used to pay for housing, food, medical care, and many other basic living expenses

Tax Pro Bono Referral Panel Program

The SBM Taxation Section and PBI have stepped in to help address the critical needs of low-income individuals in controversy with the IRS. None of the people referred to the program can afford to hire a private tax attorney to represent them in their matters. They also tend to be confused about and overwhelmed by their own tax situations, terrified of the IRS, and extremely grateful for professional assistance.

Malpractice Insurance for Pro Bono Program

Some lawyers cannot afford to maintain malpractice insurance coverage—a reality for many just entering practice on their own, those transitioning toward or in retirement, and many others. Lawyers in certain settings—including law schools—do not generally have access to coverage. But through the State Bar's Malpractice Insurance for Pro Bono Program, lawyers without malpractice insurance coverage can apply for coverage, removing a perceived barrier to assisting pro bono clients.