The United States District Court for the Western District of Louisiana announced on Apr. 18 that its Civil Pro Bono Panel, first established as a pilot initiative, was made permanent in December 2025.
The panel is designed to provide legal assistance to pro se inmates who are pursuing civil claims, while also offering attorneys an opportunity to gain experience in federal litigation, including participation in jury trials.
According to the court, the panel serves two main purposes: assisting the court with just and efficient administration of its docket by providing legal services to unrepresented inmates, and giving attorneys valuable experience with federal cases. The majority of matters handled involve civil rights claims under Title 42 Section 1983 of the United States Code, often challenging conditions of confinement or use of force by authorities.
Attorneys interested in joining must be licensed and admitted to practice in good standing within the Western District of Louisiana and have current malpractice insurance. Volunteers who accept assignments are eligible for reimbursement up to $2,500 for costs and expenses and up to $5,000 for attorney fees; reimbursements require a motion and order from the court.
Further information about applying can be found on the district court’s website at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/civil-pro-bono-panel.
