About Bet Tzedek
Bet Tzedek provides free legal services to low-income individuals and families across Los Angeles County. Each year, its in-house advocates and more than 1,000 pro bono attorneys and volunteers serve over 65,000 community members—regardless of ethnic or racial background, immigration status, religious belief, or gender identity.
Through direct representation, education and outreach, policy advocacy, and impact litigation, Bet Tzedek advances its vision of equitable access to justice for all. Its priority work includes Justice for Seniors and Dependent Adults; Justice for Workers, Taxpayers and Small Business Owners; Justice for Tenants, Homeowners, and Unhoused Individuals; Justice for Children and Families; and Justice for Transgender Individuals.
Rapid Response in Times of Crisis
When disaster strikes, Bet Tzedek’s volunteer network consistently rises to the challenge. Over the past year, pro bono attorneys and advocates mobilized quickly to respond to two major crises in Los Angeles: the January wildfires and a surge of ICE raids.
“We are deeply proud and grateful for how quickly and effectively our networks of pro bono volunteers mobilized. Some of our disaster-relief and immigration volunteers were, themselves, displaced or otherwise affected by the fires. Their commitment allows us to meet the moment head-on and provides hope and tangible help to those who need it most.”
Sara Levine Pro Bono Director at Bet Tzedek
As the fires raged in Altadena and the Palisades, Bet Tzedek launched coordinated disaster relief efforts. Its Homeowner Protection, Elder Justice, and Small Business teams created opportunities for pro bono involvement, with volunteers assisting with intakes, triage, consultations, and later, housing and insurance matters. In close collaboration with partner agencies, volunteers helped fire-affected tenants in crisis and elderly homeowners navigating complex insurance claims. This winter, Bet Tzedek plans to launch a pro bono-staffed Consumer Rights clinic for survivors navigating issues as they rebuild.
At the same time, Bet Tzedek’s immigration response teams—supported by many of the same volunteers—expanded Family Preparedness workshops to empower immigrant families facing uncertainty. Law students and newer attorneys were a vital part of the effort, helping to meet with families, draft forms, and serve as translators. Volunteers also stepped in to represent children in removal proceedings, many of whom were simultaneously navigating the foster care system.
Encouraging Attorneys to Get Involved
For attorneys unsure about pro bono work due to time constraints or lack of experience, Levine has a simple message:
“Don’t count yourself out. Our Pro Bono team is committed to meeting attorneys where they are—we get creative and work flexibly to match opportunities to volunteer skillset, interests, and availability.”
New attorneys are especially encouraged to get involved. Bet Tzedek provides training, resources, and mentorship for every pro bono matter, and many clinics—such as advanced healthcare directives or expungement clinics—are designed to welcome newer practitioners.
“We look forward to supporting your growth as a future pro bono champion. Whether you can give a few hours a month or take on a long-term matter, your time and skills are valuable—and there’s a place for you in this work.”
Sara Levine Pro Bono Director at Bet Tzedek
Making Volunteer Connections Easier
As Bet Tzedek continues to expand its pro bono programs, connecting motivated volunteers with meaningful opportunities remains a priority. To support this work, the organization uses Paladin to keep case and clinic openings updated in real-time, both on Paladin and on Bet Tzedek’s website.
“We chose Paladin to help us even more quickly and effectively connect motivated volunteers with case and clinic opportunities. We are looking forward to these opportunities being updated in real-time, both on Paladin and on Bet Tzedek’s website, in an effort to seamlessly reach as many new and repeat volunteer partners as possible, who are looking to make a real difference.”
Sara Levine Pro Bono Director at Bet Tzedek
By expanding access to pro bono opportunities, Bet Tzedek advances its mission to ensure that clients receive the legal support they deserve and that volunteers can meaningfully contribute their skills.