Founded in 1983, San Diego Volunteer Lawyer Program (SDVLP) was created to ensure that vulnerable and underserved San Diegans have access to free legal help. By connecting individuals in need with private attorneys and legal professionals who generously donate their time and expertise, SDVLP serves as a critical bridge to justice for those who cannot afford legal representation. Today, we are proud to be the largest provider of pro bono civil legal services in San Diego County.

Each year, SDVLP serves more than 6,000 clients – primarily women and children – facing serious legal challenges that threaten their safety, stability, and well-being. These include survivors of domestic violence seeking protection, tenants at risk of eviction, elderly individuals experiencing abuse, families navigating guardianship matters, and more. Our goal is to help clients achieve safety, security, and long-term stability through compassionate, trauma-informed legal advocacy.

We operate more than a dozen programs and clinics throughout the region, providing services both in person and remotely. SDVLP also maintains strong partnerships with Family Justice Centers in downtown San Diego and San Marcos, offering legal assistance on-site to survivors of domestic violence and other crimes.

Our client base is diverse and includes some of the most vulnerable members of our community, such as veterans, seniors, people living with HIV/AIDS, and children in foster care. We also assist small businesses and nonprofits serving disadvantaged communities through our Microbusiness and Nonprofit Support Program (MNSP).

MNSP provides pro bono legal assistance to small businesses and nonprofit organizations that serve historically marginalized communities. From entity formation and contracts to employment policies and intellectual property, MNSP helps local changemakers navigate complex legal issues so they can focus on what they do best: serving the community.

Each year, SDVLP leverages more than 16,000 hours of donated legal services from volunteer attorneys and legal professionals. Together, we are working to build a more just and equitable San Diego, where every individual and organization has the legal support they need not just to survive, but to thrive.

For more information, visit https://sdvlp.org/