Programs

Heartland Pro Bono Council coordinates pro bono programs with hundreds of attorneys and county bar associations in Central Indiana to promote equal access to justice for residents of limited means in central Indiana.

Heartland offers several programs to assist citizens seeking legal representation:

The Modest Means Program is a reduced fee project for clients whose household income does not exceed 175% of the federal poverty guidelines. Eligible clients pay no more than $50 an hour.

Lawyers Helping Families a family law project in which eligible clients are assisted in obtaining attorney’s fees from the opposing party so that the client can then hire his or her own attorney. These hearings are held once a month in the following counties:

• Hamilton County: Third Wednesday of the month at 4:00 p.m. in Hamilton Superior Court No. 3.
• There is also a Pro Se Component to this program where once a month, clients who want help filling out their pro se divorce forms, can seek help from an attorney or paralegal.
• Marion County: Fourth Wednesday of the month at 4:30 p.m. in Room T-341.

Arbitration – In Hamilton County, if you have a family law matter and are eligible for pro bono services, then you may be required to participate in non-binding arbitration. An arbitrator, who is an experienced family law attorney, will hear your case and make written findings that will be submitted to you for your acceptance or rejection. This program will be explained fully to you during Intake.