Fresno's "Project First Step" Seminar a Success

by Karen Lynch, District 5 Governor

"Project First Step" is a coordinated effort in Fresno County to recruit an increased number of volunteer attorneys to represent victims of domestic violence. Deborah Coe, a CWL member and President of Fresno County Women Lawyers, led the Fresno Women Lawyers board in coordinating a "Pro Bono Made Easy" training seminar on July 12, along with the Pro Bono Section of the Fresno County Bar, the Voluntary Legal Services Program of Central California Legal Services Inc. (CCLS) and The Marjaree Mason Center, a non-profit organization that aids victims of domestic abuse and homelessness. Fresno County District Attorney Elizabeth Egan made welcoming remarks. Over 75 persons attended the seminar, where they were provided with training materials and basic information on representation of domestic violence victims. CWL member Kathleen Meehan, who is also on the board of CCLS, was instrumental in making the seminar a success. The seminar received the support of the Fresno County community, politicians, and attorneys. Volunteers may either represent the client at a single temporary restraining order hearing, or may represent her at additional hearings if necessary. Appearances will be coordinated by CCLS. It is the hope that "Project First Step" will be used as a model program in other counties throughout California.