The Civil Justice Network is a consortium of solo and small firms who want to use private practice as a means to do public interest work.  Members are committed to the idea that, through participation in the Civil Justice Network, each member can grow their own practices while increasing access to the legal system by providing affordable, high quality legal services to traditionally under-served members of the public in their own communities. 

The Network acts as a safety net for solo practitioners, small firms and new lawyers.  Members have the opportunity to share ideas, experiences, and resources with other like-minded attorneys.  In essence, it's like being part of a large firm, but still maintaining your independence.

In 2009 Civil Justice completed its first strategic planning survey of members.  Approximately 35% of members participated in the survey and some of the interesting results were as follows:
   •  While it was thought that CJ would draw more less seasoned attorneys
      to become members, more than 60% of CJ’s members have five or more years of experience.
   •  Over 90% of CJ members routinely provide “low bono” services as part
      of their practice.
   •  Over 66% of CJ members have benefited from CJ through a case consult.
   •  Over 91% of members plan on continuing their membership and will
      also refer friends to join CJ.
 

Members have access to informal mentoring by experienced attorneys and law school faculty. Members also receive advice in the identification of appropriate co-counsel for complex cases. Additionally, members have opportunities to network, share experiences with and ask suggestions of other community-based solo and small firm attorneys.

Members receive assistance in areas such as: financing your own start-up; ethical dilemmas for solo practitioners; marketing your practice; effective networking techniques; client development and relations; education about and support for the use of technology to help make their practices more efficient; billing, setting and collecting fees; office and personnel management; IOLTA compliance; electronic case management and time keeping systems and developing business plans.

Civil Justice maintains an active client referral service. Annually we refer thousands of clients to our members in a variety of subject areas.  Through CJ's community contacts we are able to refer prospective clients to members on a regular basis. Appointments and fees are negotiated between the client and attorney.