Administer Justice’s mission is to “empower vulnerable neighbors with the help of a lawyer and the hope of God’s love.” With a vision to open 1,000 Gospel Justice Centers across the country, Administer Justice currently serves in 19 states, with the majority of centers located in Illinois.
Each Gospel Justice Center provides civil legal services to low-income individuals facing a wide range of issues, including family, housing, small claims, debt collection and consumer law, employment, and criminal records relief (expungement). Attorneys offer a one-time 45-minute consultation designed to equip clients with the knowledge and tools to take next steps on their own. In some cases, attorneys may provide additional limited scope support, such as drafting documents. Clients are welcome to return for follow-up appointments as needed.
Leveraging Paladin
Administer Justice connects with attorneys interested in serving their communities. By centralizing volunteer opportunities, Paladin makes it easier to promote and manage pro bono engagements, bridging the gap between legal professionals and individuals in need.
Alex Vargas shared that Paladin allows Administer Justice to create, share, and manage opportunities in one place, making it easier to promote their service model.
Recent Pro Bono Project with a Profound Impact
In December 2024, Administer Justice partnered with New Life Centers in Chicago’s Little Village neighborhood to host a Know Your Rights and Employment Authorization Document (EAD) workshop. The workshop provided education and direct assistance to recent arrivals navigating their immigration status.
The main challenge was financial—filing fees exceed $500—but thanks to a generous church benefactor, all applicants received funding support.
- 38 individuals received Know Your Rights training
- 7 EAD applications were submitted
One of the most inspiring aspects of this clinic was that it was led by a pro bono attorney who first volunteered with Administer Justice as a youth, and now runs her own immigration practice in DeKalb, Illinois.
How Administer Justice Supports their Volunteers
Administer Justice is intentional about designing clinics that are flexible, well-supported, and impactful. Attorneys can serve in person or virtually, typically for just 3–4 hours a month. Volunteers receive training, access to a help desk, and day-of support from a team of non-attorney volunteers who assist with administrative tasks. These team members also support clients by providing hospitality, interpretation, and social or spiritual resources as needed.
Advice to Attorneys Hesitant to Take on Pro Bono Work
Administer Justice makes pro bono service simple and sustainable. Volunteer attorneys are never alone—they’re backed by a community of support, resources, and a streamlined model that maximizes their time and talent.
All of Administer Justice’s clinics are hosted in churches, providing attorneys with a unique opportunity to integrate their faith with their professional calling to serve.