2024 PBCR/PLC

The panelists have extensive experience in providing free legal services to non-English speaking immigrant and refugee populations. The panelists will share insights on overcoming barriers and logistical challenges of working with diverse immigrant and refugee communities. In addition, the panelists will discuss challenges of recruiting, training and supporting pro bono attorneys who are not accustomed to using interpreters and working with immigrant communities. Attendees will gain valuable perspectives of how to overcome language and cultural barriers by engaging in client-centered interviewing and advocacy techniques. For practitioners and organizations using a pro bono model, the panelists will discuss current strategies to recruit, support and retain pro bono attorneys to provide legal services to low-income non-English speaking clients. Attendees will engage in hands-on exercises and discussion sessions to explore best practices in using professional interpreters, AI assisted language justice tools, and non-licensed interpreters, e.g. office paralegals or administrative staff. In addition, panelists will discuss ways to equip pro bono attorneys with basic skills and knowledge to bridge cultural and technological divides that frequently impede effective communication and legal service delivery.