Winter Break Pro Bono Opportunity – Restoration of Voting Rights

This Winter Break you have the opportunity to earn pro bono hours by helping Returning Citizens (citizens with felony convictions) seek restoration of their voting rights. Participating students will:

research the criminal records of Returning Citizens to determine eligibility for restoration of voting rights. Among other things, determine whether there are any outstanding fine or fee obligations that must be paid or extinguished in order for a Returning Citizen to register to vote; and

as appropriate, assist in preparation of (a) a request for an Advisory Opinion from the Division of Elections, to confirm eligibility to vote, or (b) a Motion to Modify Sentence to be filed in Florida Circuit Court, to request a waiver or reduction of financial obligation.

This is remote work, without any required in-person meetings or specific scheduled work hours. You’ll receive training and will get pro bono credit for the training time. Once you’re trained, you’ll be on a list of students who will be contacted when a new client is referred. At the time of the referral you’ll have the option to assist if you’re available. Students will receive non-legal pro bono credit for training time and legal pro bono credit for their work helping Returning Citizens restore voting rights.

If you have questions or are interested in this project, please contact Mary C. Fahy, Esq., Skelton, Willis & Wallace, LLP (727-424-6987; [email protected]).