Volunteers Needed at the Court Self-Help Centers​

Self-Help Centers are staffed by volunteer attorneys and AmeriCorps advocates and provide legal information and resources.

Access to Justice Rooms are staffed by volunteer attorneys and AmeriCorps advocates and provide limited legal services, advice, and resources in civil cases.

The Honolulu Access to Justice Room and the neighbor island Court Self-Help Centers continue to serve our communities by providing legal assistance through short-term limited legal services and legal information at no charge to those seeking help with civil matters.

​Volunteer attorneys and AmeriCorps advocates are able to assist self-represented litigants to better understand the court process and the law that may apply to facts of their cases, how to file or respond to a pleading, and where to get additional information or assistance. Without volunteers, the delivery of these services would not be possible. 

FAQ

What are the Court Self-Help Centers and the Honolulu Access to Justice Room?
  • The Court Self-Help Centers and the Honolulu Access to Justice Room provide free legal information or limited legal assistance to individuals who cannot afford an attorney. Staffed by volunteer attorneys, these centers serve the community by helping people navigate common legal issues, such as landlord-tenant disputes, family matters, and small claims. The services are designed to empower self-represented litigants by providing the guidance they need to understand and navigate the court process.

What are the requirements to volunteer?
  • You must be a licensed attorney in good standing with the Hawaii State Bar Association. No prior experience in the legal areas covered at the Self-Help Centers and Honolulu Access to Justice Room is necessary; training and resources are provided.

How much time do I need to commit?
  • Shifts are as short as one hour or as long as three hours. Most volunteers choose to participate once or twice a month, but you can volunteer more or less frequently if you’d like.

What support and training are provided?
  • We offer a comprehensive online training and ongoing support. Volunteers also receive access to on-demand resources and can consult with our AmeriCorps Advocates and staff if questions arise.

What if I’m unsure about answering a legal question?
  • You’re not alone! Our training will guide you through the types of questions you’re likely to encounter, and there are resources available to support you during your shift.

What are the benefits of volunteering at the Self-Help Centers and the Honolulu Access to Justice Room?
  • Help Those in Need: Assist patrons who cannot afford legal representation and provide them with essential guidance and support.
  • Serve Your Community: Make a meaningful impact by increasing access to justice for underserved populations in Hawaii.
  • Professional Development: Gain exposure to new legal issues, build your skills in different practice areas, and develop confidence in providing legal information.
  • Networking Opportunities: Connect with other volunteer attorneys, law firms, and professionals in your field.
  • Personal Fulfillment: Experience the rewarding feeling of making a difference in your community and helping individuals navigate difficult legal situations.

Do I receive any professional recognition or credits for my time?
  • Yes! Volunteering can earn you CLE credits,and we highlight our volunteers in our newsletters, on social media, and in the Hawaii Bar Journal. This is a great opportunity to be publicly recognized for your service.

How can I get started?
  • Email Tiane Inciong at [email protected] and we’ll provide you with everything you need to signup, select a shift, and complete your training!
Volunteer FAQ AJR
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We are currently seeking attorney volunteers for the following locations (Online training provided):

Honolulu Access to Justice Room - Remote
Monday, Wednesday, Friday (9 a.m. - 11 a.m., 11 a.m. -1 p.m.)

Kona Self-Help Center - Remote and In-Person
In-person every 2nd and 4th Wednesday of each month (11 a.m. - 1 p.m.)
Remote all other Wednesdays (11 a.m. - 1 p.m.)
 
Hilo Self-Help Center - Remote and In-Person
In-person every Tuesday (11:15 a.m. – 12:45 p.m.)
Remote every Friday (11:15 a.m. – 12:45 p.m.)

Please email [email protected] for more information.

Maui Self-Help Center - Remote
Monday, Thursday (10 a.m. - 1 p.m.)
 
Kauai Self-Help Center - Remote
Monday, Thursday (10 a.m. - 12 p.m.)​
If you are an attorney licensed in Hawaii and interested in volunteering at the Honolulu Access to Justice Room or a neighbor island Self-Help Center, please fill out the form below:
​​For more information or questions about volunteering at the Honolulu Access to Justice Room or a neighbor island Self-Help Center, please contact Tiane Inciong at [email protected]. 
​For location information and operating hours please click here:
​Court Self-Help Centers and Access to Justice Rooms have been established through a collaborative effort with the Hawaii State Judiciary, the Hawaii State Bar Association, and the Hawaii Access to Justice Commission.