Bankruptcy By-Pass Program

The Bankruptcy By-Pass Program provides pro bono legal assistance to individuals, the majority of whom are low-income senior citizens, in resolving debtor-creditor matters in which bankruptcy filing is not an option.

Both programs are partnership efforts with The Legal Aid Society of Cleveland, which handles program intake and referrals. Individuals seeking to qualify for the program should call Legal Aid's intake line at (216) 687-1900.

Bankruptcy Pro Bono Project

The Bankruptcy Pro Bono Project provides training and support to volunteer lawyers, who in turn provide pro bono legal representation to qualified, income-eligible individuals going through personal bankruptcy.

The CMBA works closely with Legal Aid on these programs, specifically helping with volunteer recruitment. To learn more about volunteering, contact Legal Aid at (216) 687-1900.

The Bankruptcy By-Pass Program and Bankruptcy Pro Bono Project are programs of the Cleveland Metropolitan Bar Association, with funding support provided by the Cleveland Metropolitan Bar Foundation. 

The CMBF is a 501(c)(3) organization; gifts to it are tax deductible as charitable contributions for federal income tax purposes.