Gov calls on lawyers to work pro bono to help jobless

With unemployment numbers reaching historic levels due to the coronavirus pandemic, Governor Andrew Cuomo has called upon the pro bono network formed by the New York State court system and the New York State Bar Association to help jobless New Yorkers. 

 Former Chief Judge Jonathan Lippman, of counsel at Latham & Watkins and the coordinator of the pro bono network, expressed confidence that attorneys across New York will heed this call to action and meet the challenge the governor has laid out. 

 Lawyers may sign up for the  program, Applying for Unemployment: Client Counseling Under the CARES Act, at the bar association’s website.

 While the network is focusing first on New Yorkers who have lost their jobs, going forward it will also address the many other legal needs that will undoubtedly arise as a result of the pandemic. 

 Lawyers who are interested in joining this cause may sign up on the association’s website. Questions about volunteering will be answered by email at

 In addition, the New York State Bar Association has transformed its website and social media accounts into hubs of legal information regarding the COVID-19 crisis. Learn more at: https://nysba.org/coronavirus.

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