The
Department of Justice is seeking
volunteers from the Delaware Bar who are willing to
assist us in providing services that benefit the
public. Your help could be of value in a number of
area: criminal and civil litigation, consumer
protection enforcement, senior victim cases, or
animal cruelty.
The Need
There are many opportunities with the
Department. The wide range of legal issues dealt
with by the Department of Justice calls for much of
the same legal expertise which is the hallmark of
the private and corporate Bar in Delaware. Civil
litigation skills, pleadings practice and specific
expertise can contribute to a more cost-effective,
in-house representation of agencies.
But our greatest need may be in
the Justice of the Peace Courts. Despite our
efforts, there are currently no Deputy Attorneys
General handling most matters in Delaware's Justice
of the Peace Courts (JP Courts). In practical
effect, this means that justice may be denied to
victims of crimes.
Who Can Help?
While this request is directed to the
Delaware Bar in general, you may be in a better
position to consider it more closely if you are
preparing to wind down your practice, are retired
from active practice, or after an absence, are
considering returning to the practice of law.
How Much Time will be
Required?
You may volunteer a little or as much
as you would like. You could handle a criminal
calendar one or two days a week, handle arrangements
one half day every other week, co chair a civil
litigation, or teach a training seminar in your area
of expertise or on civil pleadings practice one
time.
Will there be any
Training for Volunteers?
Yes. Training will depend, in part, on
your professional experience and background. For
those who would like to volunteer for the JP Courts,
but have limited background in criminal matters,
several training sessions will be held to provide a
necessary level of familiarity and comfort.
Experienced Deputy Attorneys General will assist in
providing orientation and training, and as you
progress, they will be available for liaison and
guidance purposes.
What Will The Scope Of
My Authority Be?
That will depend on how you
participate. Any volunteer handling criminal or
other matters in court will be sworn in as a Special
Deputy Attorney General with all concurrent
authority.
What About Conflicts
of Interest?
For those of you recently retired or
practicing part-time, there may be a conflict in
some cases. We will work with you to screen the
potential for conflicts, identify any that exist,
and appropriately rescue you from participation in
those matters.