Volunteer Professor Supervisors for Mommy's Heart, Inc. to Support Abused and Neglected Children

Volunteer Opportunity for Family Law Professor Supervisor at Mommy's Heart: Empowering Survivors through Justice

Organization Overview

Mommy's Heart, Inc. (EIN #87-4833078) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization providing free legal, mental health, and advocacy services to parents and children who have escaped domestic abuse and face retaliatory lawfare by their abusers in court.

The Need

The cost of legal representation is a significant barrier to justice. Parents who cannot afford an attorney are unable to adequately protect their parental rights and advocate for their children's best interests. This disparity in access to legal representation contributes to 58,000 children a year being court ordered into unsupervised contact, including sole custody arrangements, with an abusive parent. Every six days a child dies due to family court failures.

Our Mission

Mommy's Heart aims to protect and defend the fundamental rights of all fit parents to direct the care and custody of their children. Mommy’s Heart is dedicated to empowering abuse survivors with equal access to justice, healing, and the chance to rebuild their lives.

Volunteer Opportunity

Position Title: Volunteer Family Law Professor Supervisor

Duration: Flexible, based on volunteer availability

Location: Remote, in-office, or hybrid (based on personal preference)

Position Summary

Mommy’s Heart seeks a dedicated and experienced Law Professor to volunteer as a Supervising Attorney. This unique opportunity allows you to mentor a law student in providing direct legal representation to a parent in family court, ensuring both a high level of client advocacy and an exceptional educational experience for the student. The case may involve Article X neglect/abuse proceedings, child custody disputes, visitation rights, child support matters, orders of protection, and other related family law matters.

Responsibilities

• Supervise all aspects of the student's representation of the client, including:
  • Initial client interviews and case assessment.
  • Legal research and analysis.
  • Drafting and filing of legal documents (pleadings, motions, etc.).
  • Negotiation with opposing counsel.
  • Preparation for and attendance at court hearings and trials.

• Provide guidance and feedback to the student on legal strategy, courtroom advocacy, and ethical considerations.
• Review and approve all legal documents prepared by the student before filing with the court.
• Attend court hearings and trials with the student and provide real-time guidance and support.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant rules of professional conduct.
• Maintain regular communication with the Clinic Director regarding case progress and any challenges encountered.
• Potentially co-teach a seminar component related to the casework.

Qualifications

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school.
• Active member in good standing of the State Bar.
• Substantial experience in family law litigation.
• Prior experience supervising or mentoring law students or junior attorneys preferred.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and teaching skills.
• Demonstrated commitment to pro bono legal services and social justice.
• Familiarity with the ethical rules governing student practice.

Benefits

• Meaningful Contribution: Directly impact the life of a parent in need of legal assistance.
• Mentorship Experience: Shape the next generation of lawyers by providing invaluable practical training to a law student.
• Professional Development: Stay engaged with current legal issues and hone your mentoring and teaching skills.
• Recognition: Receive recognition from the Law School/Clinic for your commitment to pro bono service.
• Malpractice Coverage: The Law School/Clinic will provide malpractice insurance coverage for your work as a supervising attorney.
• CLE Opportunity: Opportunity to potentially obtain Continuing Legal Education (CLE) credits for supervision (check with your state bar).

How to Get Involved

Interested attorneys are invited to contact Mommy's Heart at mommysheartinc@gmail.com. Please include "Volunteer Supervising Attorney Application - [Your Name]" in the subject line of your email.

Join us in making a difference in the lives of abuse survivors and helping them regain control of their futures through justice and support.

www.mommysheartfoundation.com