Emeritus Attorneys

Created by former New York State Chief Judge Jonathan Lippman in 2010, the AEP was established to help New Yorkers with legal needs who cannot afford legal counsel. The program is designed to enhance the capacity of New York State legal service providers that are facing increased demand for services, including Legal Assistance of Western New York, Inc®. The AEP engages seasoned lawyers in pro bono projects under the auspices of the legal service providers. For more information about this program, click here!

Requirements

To be eligible to be an Attorney Emeritus, you must meet a few requirements. You must be an attorney of at least 55 years old, have practiced law for at least 10 years and in good standing with the New York State Bar, have a license to practice law in New York, and commit to 60 hours of biennial pro bono service. You must also work as an Attorney Emeritus through an AEP approved Legal Service Provider. Available online trainings can be found here: https://www.pli.edu/search?q=pro+bono

Benefits of the Attorney Emeritus Program

As an Attorney Emeritus, there are many benefits. If you are retired, your New York State Bar dues and your minimal Continuing Legal Education (CLE) fees are waived. Through the host agency or legal service provider you work with, you are covered by malpractice insurance, and you have the opportunity to earn up to 15 CLE credits. The training that you may need is provided, and you can sustain and enhance your skills as an attorney!

How to Register:

Check the box pertaining to the Attorney Emeritus Program on your Biannual Bar Registration

OR

Visit http://ww2.nycourts.gov/attorneys/volunteer/emeritus/index.shtml

and click “Apply to Volunteer”