MVLS Receives Funding to Develop Self-Help Materials for Family Law Matters and Legal Resource Guides for Seniors

The Maryland Bar Foundation and the Baltimore Bar Foundation Support MVLS’s Commitment to Helping Low-Income Marylanders Navigate Civil Legal Challenges

BALTIMORE, February 27, 2020 – Maryland Volunteer Lawyers Service (MVLS), the largest provider of pro bono civil legal services to low-income Marylanders, today announced new funding from the Maryland Bar Foundation and the Baltimore City Bar Foundation. With the Maryland Bar Foundation funding, MVLS will create detailed self-help materials for family law matters, particularly for distribution through the Baltimore City Family Court system. The Baltimore City Bar Foundation is providing funding to develop a civil legal resource guide that will be distributed through local senior centers and available on MVLS’s website which covers topics like why estate planning matters, financial exploitation, and how to spot a scam.

“We are grateful for the funding from the Maryland Bar Foundation and the Baltimore City Bar Foundation to continue to educate Marylanders about their civil legal rights and the resources available to give all Marylanders – especially those who can’t afford legal counsel – the information they need to succeed in resolving their issues,” said Susan Francis, executive director, Maryland Volunteer Lawyers Service (MVLS). “Family law is one of the legal areas that our clients need the most help and the majority of these cases are in Baltimore City. Seniors also face legal decisions, including estate planning, taxes and housing, that can be confusing to figure out, and have disastrous outcomes for themselves and their family members. Having an attorney and a clear understanding of the process makes a significant difference and can help ensure better outcomes for an individual.”