Pro Bono Net Launches New LGBT Practice Area on probono.net/ny

NEW YORK - Feb. 7, 2019 - PRLog -- Pro Bono Net is pleased to announce the launch of a new LGBT Practice Area on probono.net/ny in partnership with the LGBT Bar Association of New York (also known as LeGal). The new resources in this practice area are designed to aid pro bono attorneys, legal services advocates, law students and faculty who are representing and advocating for the LGBTQ+ community.

According to a survey by the New York City Comptroller, New York City's metro area is home to the largest LGBTQ+ population in the country. The survey also found that LGBTQ+ people in New York and across the nation continue to face discrimination, harassment and violence as a result of their sexual orientation or gender identity. The information and resources in the LGBT Practice Area will seek to address legal issues unique to the LGBTQ+ community and include the LGBT Bar's Law Notes, Amicus Briefs, Podcasts, and Advocacy and Policy information, among others.

Through the LGBT practice area, probono.net/ny members can join an active network of advocates serving low-income LGBTQ+ individuals in New York and access a library of resources and information to support their advocacy. The opportunities guide allows advocates to search for pro bono opportunities with organizations statewide that serve low-income LGBTQ+ individuals. Members can also join discussion groups and learn about opportunities to volunteer at one of the LGBT Bar's legal clinics, and listen to podcasts on LGBTQ+ legal issues hosted by LeGal.

"We are thrilled to join forces with Pro Bono Net to increase access to justice for LGBT New Yorkers," Rev. Brett Figlewski, Esq., Legal Director of the LGBT Bar Association said.  "Building on past collaborative efforts such as our Saturday Night 'Qlinic' for at-risk LGBTQ youth, this newest partnership brings together Pro Bono Net's unrivaled network of dedicated pro bono lawyers with LeGaL's legal services, which are one of the lifelines for LGBT community members seeking help with their legal issues."

"Low income LGBTQ+ individuals in New York face legal issues that are unique to their status as LGBTQ+," added Jess Penkoff, Esq., Pro Bono & Strategic Initiatives Coordinator at Pro Bono Net. "Attorneys and advocates for these individuals will benefit from active participation in the LGBT Practice Area network and use of the tools available through probono.net/ny/lgbt. We are proud to engage in this natural partnership with the LGBT Bar Association to support the LGBTQ+ community and their attorneys and advocates as we strive together to close the justice gap."

probono.net/ny is a statewide network of legal aid attorneys, pro bono volunteers and law students dedicated to helping low-income and vulnerable New Yorkers resolve civil legal issues. To learn more about the LGBT Practice Area or probono.net/ny please visit www.probono.net/ny/lgbt

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About Pro Bono Net

Pro Bono Net is a national non-profit organization dedicated to increasing access to justice. Through innovative technology solutions and expertise in building and mobilizing justice networks, Pro Bono Net transforms the way legal help reaches the underserved. Comprehensive programs, including www.probono.net, www.lawhelp.org, www.lawhelpinteractive.org and www.immigrationadvocates.org enable legal advocates to make a stronger impact, increase volunteer participation, and empower the public with resources and self-help tools to improve their lives.

About the LGBT Bar Association

Focused on the greater New York metropolitan area, LeGaL is dedicated to improving the administration of the law, ensuring full equality for members of the LGBT community, promoting the expertise and advancement of LGBT legal professionals, and serving the larger community.

www.lgbtbarny.org