Mission & History

Mission

The South Alabama Volunteer Lawyers Program, Inc. (SAVLP) provides access to justice for low-income individuals by extending free civil legal services through the dedication of volunteer lawyers, empowering clients to navigate the justice system with dignity.

SAVLP History

The Mobile Bar Association first organized a Pro Bono Program to provide free legal representation to low-income clients in Mobile County in 1985. During the first two years of its existence, the program was operated through the office of the MBA Executive Secretary. A separate Pro Bono Office was established in 1989 with its own director.

In 2000, the organization changed its name to the Mobile Bar Association Volunteer Lawyers Program (MBA VLP). As the program became more established and expanded its reach to include other counties in Alabama, the MBA VLP changed its name to the South Alabama Volunteer Lawyers Program (SAVLP).

The SAVLP is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and a partner agency of the United Way of Baldwin County and the United Way of Southwest Alabama with a full time staff of four. Almost 700 lawyers volunteer their expertise and time to work with low-income clients in a wide range of civil cases.

SAVLP Board of Directors, consists of area attorneys, members of the legal community, and community stakeholders.