A new program for the appointment of counsel for indigent civil litigants has been established by the federal courts for Western District of Kentucky. A panel of volunteer attorneys is now being compiled from which federal judges can make appointments in certain cases, including those involving employment discrimination and prisoner civil rights. Reimbursement of allowable expenses up to $1,000 will be available in some cases. Eligible attorneys interested in being on the panel are encouraged to complete an online application available HERE.
“Those attorneys who represent indigent litigants pursuant to the Pro Bono Counsel Protocol will be providing a valuable service to their client, the Court, and the larger system of justice,” noted Chief Judge Joseph H. McKinley, Jr. “In addition, volunteering enables members of the bar to develop federal court experience, particularly jury trial experience.”