LSC's 2020 Innovations in Technology Conference

This case study explores the successes and challenges of implementing new legal services delivery models by examining The Commons Law Center, a nonprofit law firm serving Oregonians of modest means. The session will highlight its origins and how a board member’s private law firm leveraged financial and in-kind support to launch and support the nonprofit. The organization uses charitable revenue as seed capital to launch new legal verticals that should become self-sustaining within a year. The firm has a three-part mission: 1. Expand access to legal services; 2. Train new attorneys to run a revenue-positive practice; and 3. Educate the public. Its Pro Bono Partner model leverages experienced private-sector attorneys to volunteer expertise, early case assessment, and quality assurance, while lawyer fellows and interns handle day-to-day case work. The session will cover how the firm uses Agile Project Management, Lean Process Improvement, and Design Thinking—coupled with empowering technology and analytics—to optimize workflows and promote efficient service delivery.