COLUMN > PRO BONO ORGANIZATION OF THE MONTH
Q&A with Cindy Johnson, Executive Director; Charity Rotinski, Program Coordinator; and Torrance Montgomery, Program Assistant
Q. Tell us a bit about the history of your organization. What is your organization’s philosophy? Why do you do what you do?
At Inland Empire Legal Aid (formerly Spokane County Bar Volunteer Lawyers Program), we are dedicated to bridging the justice gap by connecting volunteer attorneys, limited license legal technicians (LLLTs), and law students with individuals in need of legal assistance. Our team works tirelessly to support pro bono efforts, organize legal clinics, and provide critical resources to underserved communities. Whether it’s through status conferences, legal clinics, or special events, we empower volunteers to make a real impact, one case at a time.
Q. Where is your organization located? Do volunteers participate remotely, in person, or both?
We are located at 222 W Mission Ave., Ste. 222 Spokane, WA 99201. We have walk-in hours, one-on-one appointments, attorney phone calls, and various legal clinics to offer.
Q. Who does your organization serve?
We assist low-income individuals (200 percent below federal poverty level) that reside in Spokane, Pend Oreille, Ferry, Stevens, and Lincoln counties.
Q. What are the biggest barriers your clients face in accessing legal assistance?
In addition to financial constraints that prevent individuals from hiring an attorney, we have identified fear, transportation challenges, and a lack of advocacy as significant barriers to accessing legal assistance. The absence of a unified court system exacerbates confusion, particularly when language barriers or disabilities are involved, further intensifying feelings of distress and uncertainty.
Q. What area(s) of law do you provide services in?
We assist with family law, consumer protection, and limited wills and estates. While the previously listed areas are our focus, we will regularly reach out to applicants outside of these areas if we have volunteers available.
Q. Does your organization provide training, CLE credit, or other benefits to volunteers?
We offer CLE credits, provide volunteers with malpractice insurance, and provide various training opportunities to ensure volunteers feel comfortable and supported in their roles. Most importantly, volunteers can take pride in knowing they have made a lasting impact on individuals who genuinely need assistance and guidance.
Q. Please provide one or two (anonymous) client stories, examples of people who were helped and how.
Client Story 1: A volunteer provided legal assistance at a monthly clinic hosted by a community partner, with an interpreter’s help, to begin a client’s divorce paperwork. The IELA staff arranged for a volunteer interpreter for a follow-up meeting to complete the paperwork. When the client returned to the courthouse to finalize the case, the volunteer stayed on the phone with an interpreter to guide the client through the process and assist while awaiting the judge’s signature. The judicial assistant asked the volunteer to inform the client that the divorce was final. This case highlights the invaluable role of volunteers who consistently support clients, build trust, and provide essential information.
Client Story 2: A senior gentleman attended a wills clinic to receive assistance with drafting a will. He attended the clinic knowing that he had bone cancer and wanted help with estate planning. The client was very concerned that he would not be able to get his personal affairs in order for end-of-life planning. He was on a fixed income and unable to pay for an attorney to assist with this issue. The IELA was able to provide an attorney to assist with drafting a will, durable power of attorney, and health care directive for free.
Q. What does a typical weekly or monthly commitment look like for a volunteer? How many hours? How many clients?
We encourage our volunteers to contribute in a way that aligns with their comfort level and availability. Some volunteers choose to assist with a one-hour phone call each week, others participate in weekly clinics, while some provide support monthly. We are deeply grateful for any amount of time and assistance our volunteers offer.
Q. What do volunteers say they enjoy most about serving clients through your organization?
Volunteers find fulfillment in knowing they are making a meaningful difference in the lives of many individuals. The support IELA provides has a lasting impact on those who are often navigating through panic and stress. We address a critical need in our community during some of the most challenging times in a person’s life. Volunteers say that they feel supported and encouraged when they assist, both within their legal area and as they are learning a new area of law.
Q. Are you currently in need of volunteers? If so, how can legal professionals reach out to get involved?
Yes, we are always in need of volunteers willing to assist at our various legal clinics, making client phone calls, and possibly providing limited direct representation. You can reach out at IELACoordinator@inlandempirelegalaid.org if you have questions or are interested in volunteering.
Q. What gaps in our existing system(s) does your organization fill?
We help bridge a critical gap in the legal system, which is often known for limiting access to justice for the average person and for marginalized communities. Our services are provided free of charge in a welcoming environment, where we strive to alleviate fear and ensure that individuals feel support throughout the process. We assist applicants through a holistic approach that addresses their full range of needs. By providing education, we empower pro se parties to make informed decisions throughout their legal matters. When we are unable to offer direct assistance, we are committed to helping connect individuals with organizations that can provide the support they need.
Q. What would you most want readers to know about the type of work your organization does and the type of people who need your services?
We want people to know that we are deeply committed to providing a welcoming and supportive environment, where every individual is treated with the utmost dignity and respect. We understand that this may be one of the most challenging times in a person’s life, and it is our goal to ensure that you feel heard, valued, and empowered throughout the process. We strive to create an atmosphere that fosters trust and compassion, where you can receive the assistance you need without fear or hesitation. Our team is here to guide you with understanding and care, providing support every step of the way.
LEARN MORE > To learn more about the work done by Inland Empire Legal Aid and to get involved, please visit www.inlandempirelegalaid.org.
ABOUT THE AUTHORS
Cindy Johnson, Ed.D, joined our team as executive director in June 2024, bringing experience in education, leadership, and community service. As a former professor at Gonzaga University, she has dedicated her career to mentoring future professionals and advocating for access to justice. With expertise in leadership development, strategic planning, trauma, and advocacy, Johnson leads IELA’s efforts to provide pro bono legal assistance. Her commitment to service ensures that both volunteers and clients receive the support they need to navigate the legal system.
Charity Rotinski is a limited license legal technician (LLLT) and has been with IELA for five years in various positions. As the IELA coordinator, she plays a critical role in connecting attorneys, LLLTs, and law students with opportunities to serve their community. Rotinski is passionate about ensuring individuals facing legal challenges receive the guidance they need while fostering a strong network of legal professionals committed to making a difference.
Torrance Montgomery became the legal program assistant at IELA in July 2024. A recent graduate of the University of San Francisco (‘24), she earned her degree in politics with a minor in criminal justice. Passionate about legal advocacy and public service, Montgomery supports IELA’s mission by assisting with program coordination and ensuring clients receive the help they need.