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SC Bar - Self-Help Assistance on Divorce for Everyone

The SC Bar's Self-Help Assistance on Divorce for Everyone (SHADE) project (also known as the Divorce Help Clinic) helps citizens seeking to obtain a divorce.   Volunteer lawyers review and assist in preparation of self-help divorce forms and answer general questions about using the forms and representing oneself in Family Court.  South Carolina Law students assist with intake, shepherding clients in the courthouse if needed and any other activities as directed by the volunteer attorneys. 

Purpose of project

  1. To provide opportunities for law students to work along side the attorneys and  clients   
  2. To provide skills development and enhancement opportunities for law students
  3. To create an awareness of the problems faced by self- represented litigants

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 self-represented litigant population

Organization Responsibilities

The Divorce Help Clinic lawyers must:

  1. Agree to properly supervise the work of the law student
  2. Provide clear and timely instructions
  3. Seek opportunities to expose the students to various tasks
  4. Provide feedback when possible

Student Responsibilities

The students must:

  1. Communicate effectively and efficiently with the Divorce Help Clinic volunteers
  2. Complete tasks in a timely and competent manner
  3. Seek assistance when needed
  4. Perform duties professionally 

Core Skills:

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 & Skills Inventory for more details.

  • Oral Communication and Listening Abilities
  • Critical Reading Abilities
  • Task Organization and Management
  • Professionalism

Next Steps?


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