Member Spotlight

 

This month we spotlight The Idaho Law Foundation (ILF), established in 1975. The ILF is the charitable arm of the Idaho State Bar. Its mission is to support the right of all individuals to live in a peaceful community by educating the public about the role of law in a democratic society, providing opportunities to avoid and resolve conflicts, and enhancing the education and competence of lawyers.

 

Key Programs and Initiatives:

• Idaho Volunteer Lawyers Program (IVLP): IVLP offers a safety net for low-income Idahoans requiring civil legal services. Through a statewide network of volunteer attorneys, the program provides free legal assistance, including advice, consultation, brief legal services, and representation.
• Law Related Education (LRE): Since 1985, LRE has focused on educating students about real-world legal issues using interactive techniques such as mock trials, moot courts, debates, and case studies. These programs aim to develop critical thinking, reasoning, decision-making, and communication skills among students.
• Idaho High School Mock Trial Competition: This program provides students with hands-on experience in the legal process, allowing them to prepare and present hypothetical legal cases in real courtrooms before actual judges. It fosters an understanding of the legal system and enhances public speaking and analytical skills.
• Idaho Military Legal Alliance (IMLA): Established in 2013, IMLA works to increase access to pro bono legal services for Idaho’s military population. Its objectives include coordinating services among partners, providing continuing legal education on military legal issues, supporting military legal clinics statewide, and recruiting pro bono attorneys to assist military personnel.

 

Impact and Community Engagement:

The Idaho Law Foundation is governed by a thirteen-member Board of Directors comprising individuals from various parts of Idaho, representing both the legal profession and the communities served. The Foundation offers numerous volunteer opportunities for attorneys and community members, including participation in committees, pro bono services, and educational programs.

 

Through its comprehensive programs and initiatives, the Idaho Law Foundation continues to enhance access to justice, promote legal education, and support the professional development of attorneys, thereby strengthening the legal community and the public’s understanding of the law.

To learn more about this fantastic foundation, visit their website here: https://ilf.idaho.gov/