The United States District Court for the Western District of Louisiana has established a Civil Pro Bono Panel, which was made permanent in December 2025.

The Civil Pro Bono Panel provides important services for the District. First, the provision of legal services to pro se inmates pursuing civil claims assists the Court in justly and efficiently administering its docket. Second, the Civil Pro Bono Panel provides attorneys with an opportunity to gain valuable experience in federal litigation, up to and including participation in a jury trial.

The Judiciary seeks for the Civil Pro Bono Panel: licensed attorneys, admitted to practice and in good standing in the Western District, with current and adequate malpractice insurance, willing to represent pro se inmates in civil matters. Generally, these matters are civil rights claims brought by inmates and pretrial detainees under 42 U.S.C. § 1983, which challenge the conditions of confinement or the use of force.

Volunteer attorneys who accept pro bono assignments are eligible for reimbursement of costs and expenses in an amount up to $2,500, and for attorneys fees in an amount up to $5,000. Reimbursements will be made only upon motion and order by the Court.

For more information regarding the Civil Pro Bono Panel, including how to apply, please visit our website at: https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/civil-pro-bono-panel.