IVLP screens applicants for financial and case eligibility. The program accepts applications from persons whose total household income falls at, or below, 125% of the federal poverty line and who present legal issues that are within program priorities. The program maintains a toll-free statewide number to ensure access throughout Idaho. In 2010, IVLP received 5,812 requests for legal assistance and processed 607 applications, providing legal assistance to approximately 1,646 persons. These cases included 220 victims/survivors of domestic violence and 647 household members. At 85% of the total caseload, family law comprises the bulk of the issues covered by the program, including a new initiative to provide pro bono representation to immigrant victims of domestic violence. In 2010, Idaho attorneys and other professionals in the legal field reported donating over 11,166 hours to low-income clients through individualized case representation, monthly legal clinics at senior citizen centers throughout the State, Youth Court programs, legal work for non-profit groups serving the low-income, and direct assistance to IVLP in conducting applicant phone interviews, providing legal research, and assisting individuals in preparing forms for pro se representation. The Scope of IVLP Case Types Family – custody and visitation, divorce, modification of child custody court-orders, grandparent guardianships, and other guardianships for the protection of children or adults. Cases that present allegations of domestic violence and/or child endangerment have priority for referral to volunteer attorneys. Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) Program – attorneys represent Court Appointed Special Advocates (i.e., guardians ad litem) in child protection cases. Other – wills and probate (limited assets), immigration, individual rights, assisting non-profit groups, and limited debt defense. For more information contact: Mary Hobson, Legal Director
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