What Does the Panel Do?
Pro se plaintiffs often apply for the appointment of counsel. The Pro Bono Panel has been established to provide counsel, when merited, to individuals who do not have the means to obtain counsel on their own. A screening committee of lawyers reviews the allegations in each case in which a plaintiff applies for counsel, and makes a recommendation to the court. The court makes a final determination, appointing counsel from the panel in those cases where the claims appear to have merit and prosecution of the claims would be enhanced by counsel’s participation.

Panel participation offers a unique opportunity to gain experience in civil litigation in federal court while providing a valuable community service. The court has funds available to defray some litigation expenses, and the King County Bar Association offers malpractice coverage to panel attorneys who are not otherwise insured.

Join the Panel
Please complete a Pro Bono Panel application form if you would like to join the Pro Bono Panel. The Pro Bono Committee will review your qualifications and notify you if you are selected for the panel. The court contacts panel attorneys in the order in which they appear on the list for appointment to a case. Assuming you have no conflicts, an order appointing you as counsel will issue. If you are asked to take a case in an unfamiliar area of law, the Pro Bono Committee will help find an attorney to serve as a mentor or sounding board. The Pro Bono Panel offers a wonderful opportunity to litigate in federal court and to serve the community. Contact the Pro Bono Committee if you have questions.

The U.S. District Court’s plan for the representation of pro se litigants and rules pertaining to such representation can be found on the court’s website, or you may request a copy by contacting Sharon Haas at (206) 553-4839 or sharon_haas@wawd.uscourts.gov. After reviewing the plan and rules, please submit your online application. Please contact Sharon Haas if you would prefer to mail a hard copy of the application to her.