Partners, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing legal assistance to domestic and sexual violence survivors, is proud to announce the launch of a new Legal Professional Pilot Program in collaboration with Lowenstein Sandler LLP. This innovative program, which began in January 2025, aims to streamline Partners' workflow and improve access to free legal assistance for survivors of domestic and sexual violence.
Operating two days per week, the Legal Professional Pilot Program enlists dedicated volunteers from Lowenstein's talented administrative staff to field inquiries and connect survivors to much-needed services and resources. Volunteers participate in two-hour shifts, with four volunteers covering shifts each day.
The primary focus of the Pilot Program is to support survivors seeking assistance with Final Restraining Orders (FRO) and other related family law matters.
Lisa Nichole Roskos, Esq., Director of Pro Bono Programs at Partners, expressed her enthusiasm for the program, stating: "We are incredibly grateful for our longstanding partnership with Lowenstein Sandler, which dates back to 2009. This Pilot Program allows us to expand our reach, providing survivors with timely and compassionate assistance while freeing up our specialized staff to focus on fulfillment of our organization's mission. It's a win-win for everyone involved."
Michael A. Kaplan, Chair of Partners' Board of Trustees and partner at Lowenstein, added "Lowenstein Sandler has always been committed to giving back to our community. This program not only empowers our volunteers to make a difference but also provides a unique opportunity for them to interact directly with those seeking help. It's a profound experience that goes beyond paperwork—our volunteers see firsthand the resilience of survivors and the vital importance of legal advocacy."
In addition to an already impressive pool of attorney volunteers taking on cases as part of Partners' Pro Bono Program, Lowenstein Sandler also encourages non-attorney staff to participate in altruistic efforts, offering them a unique opportunity to engage with the community and support survivors. The flexible structure of two-hour shifts makes volunteering manageable while allowing staff to multitask effectively without disrupting their workday.
The program is designed to attract volunteers who feel personally connected to Partners' mission as well as those who have a desire to make a tangible difference. Volunteers appreciate the chance to go beyond administrative tasks, directly assisting potential clients and gaining insight into the challenges faced by survivors.