Permits the first time offender to purge their record from the system by completing a set of requirements set forth by a volunteer arbitrator. Law Students will serve as arbitrators conducting hearings for juveniles and will monitor their progress in meeting the requirements set forth in the arbitration. Usually assigned one case at a time requiring approximately a total of 8 hours. Fall Training ONLY — limited space

Training: 18 hours; application; criminal record check

• 11th Circuit Juvenile Arbitration Program (Lexington County)
• Statewide Juvenile Arbitration Programs [PDF]

Purpose of pro bono opportunity

1. To provide opportunities for law students to engage in an arbitration program
2. To provide skills development and enhancement opportunities for law students
3. To create an awareness of the issues surrounding juvenile justice
4. To observe the SC court system in action

Requirements or qualifications

Law students must:

1. be in good academic standing
2. complete and submit the Volunteer Enrollment Form
3. have an interest in serving the juvenile population
4. have an interest in being part of a problem solving program
5. must be 21 years of age and be able to pass a background check

Responsibilities of organizations

The Lexington County Juvenile Arbitration Office must:

1. agree to properly supervise the work of the law student
2. provide clear and timely instructions and feedback
3. provide adequate training
4. facilitate delivery of case files

Responsibilities of the students

The students must:

1. communicate effectively and efficiently with the office
2. complete tasks in a timely and competent manner
3. seek assistance when needed
4. perform duties professionally
5. treat this volunteer opportunity as if it was a paying or for-credit position

Skills Opportunities

The following Core Skills may be associated with this particular volunteer opportunity. Not all tasks will contain all of these skills. See the complete Core Competencies and Skills Inventory for more details.

• Core Skill: Oral Communication and Listening Abilities
• Core Skill: Critical Reading Abilities
• Core Skill: Task Organization and Management
• Core Skills: Professionalism

 

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Next Steps?

• Fill out the Volunteer Enrollment/Interest Form.  The Pro Bono Program will follow up with any necessary forms or set up a time to respond to questions or concerns.
• Keep track of your volunteer time with M.Y. Pro Bono.