As Texans seek legal help for employment issues and eviction cases spawned by the COVID-19 pandemic, the bar associations in the Lone Star State’s biggest cities are responding with virtual clinics and specialized pro bono programs.

There was a learning curve as the bars transitioned in-person legal-clinics to virtual formats, which slowed down the provision of pro bono services. But as they get rolling, the bar associations are finding that virtual clinics still attract clients, and that law firms and attorneys love the new format. Some of the metro bar associations have also launched specialized programs to help people with eviction cases during the pandemic, or to help first responders to establish wills and estate plans.

Trish McAllister Trish McAllister. Courtesy photo