In partnership with the New York State Office for Justice Initiatives’ Access to Justice Program, the Civil Court Project provides brief, limited scope assistance and advice to unrepresented individuals on civil matters.  

As a volunteer with the Civil Court Project, David Oppliger, of David E. Oppliger PLLC, has provided advice on a range of legal issues, such as Small Claims Court, name changes, and consumer debt. It is clear from his work that David takes the time to diligently review cases with the pro se litigants assigned to him. He provides litigants, many of whom are confused by unfamiliar court procedures, with thorough advice and discusses with them next steps so that they are better equipped to represent themselves in court.  David has advised and assisted litigants with completing and answering court forms, and he has provided litigants with suggestions on how to create timelines of facts and gather and organize documents in preparation for court hearings. David’s service to the project ensures that unrepresented litigants are more knowledgeable about their legal cases, which enables them to have stronger and more confident voices in court – voices that are often drowned out by adversarial attorneys. During the pandemic, the Civil Court Project, which was previously housed in NYC Civil Court’s Help Centers, began operating remotely. David has proven to be a consistent and reliable volunteer throughout the years, even through transitions, and we are grateful for his service.      

 We are proud to present David with a 2023 Outstanding Pro Bono Service Award, and we thank him for strengthening the voices of the unrepresented.