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About the Inland Empire Legal Aid

Who We Are

The Inland Empire Legal Aid (IELA), formerly known as Spokane Volunteer Lawyers Program (VLP), was established in 1985, is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit legal assistance program of the Spokane County Bar Association (SCBA). IELA strives to create a just and equitable society where all individuals, regardless of race or ethnicity, or sexual orientation, have equal access to legal services and justice. IELA operates out of Spokane County but does its best to help Pend Oreille, Ferry, Stevens and Lincoln counties. The IELA is supported by the Legal Foundation of Washington (LFW), SCBA members, and members of the community - like you!

What We Do

IELA's mission is to connect low-income community members needing legal services to legal education and to pro bono professionals. The IELA strives to help low-income community members (within 200% of the Federal Poverty Level) help themselves with civil legal matters by providing legal education and advice through clinics, events and classes. The IELA's primary focus is Family Law, but the program also assists with consumer issues, and limited wills/estates.

Where We Are

IELA is located at 222 W. Mission Ave, Suite 222, Spokane, WA 99201 (inside Garden Court Building.) In our efforts to be more accessible to our clients, we are located on or near 3 bus lines (25, 27, 28). There is also free parking.

Mission Statement

Inland Empire Legal Aid (IELA) expands access to justice across five counties in Eastern Washington by providing legal services, education, and advocacy for underserved communities. We prioritize language access, cultural responsiveness, and community engagement through a growing network of qualified, volunteer legal professionals, educators, and partners. We offer training, legal clinics, access to resources, and professional development opportunities that build local capacity and empower clients to make informed and independent decisions. IELA is committed to equity, dignity, and justice for all.

Meet the Team

At the Inland Empire Legal Aid, we are dedicated to bridging the justice gap by connecting volunteer attorneys, Limited Licensed Legal Technician's (LLLT's), and law students with individuals in need of legal assistance. Our team works tirelessly to support pro bono efforts, organize legal clinics, and provide critical resources to underserved communities. Whether it’s through legal clinics, informational sessions and outreach, we empower volunteers to make a real impact—one case at a time.

Executive Director

Cindy Johnson

Cindy joined our team as Executive Director in June 2024, bringing a wealth of experience in education, leadership, and community service. As a former professor at Gonzaga University, she has dedicated her career to mentoring future professionals and advocating for access to justice. With expertise in leadership development and advocacy, Cindy leads IELA’s efforts to provide pro bono legal assistance. Her commitment to service ensures that both volunteers and clients receive the support they need to navigate the legal system.

IELA Coordinator

Charity Rotinski

Charity is a Limited Licensed Legal Technician (LLLT) and has been with the Inland Empire Legal Aid (VLP) for 5 years. As the IELA Coordinator, she plays a key role in connecting attorneys, LLLT's, and law students with opportunities to serve their community. Charity is passionate about ensuring individuals facing legal challenges receive the guidance they need while fostering a strong network of legal professionals committed to making a difference.

Legal Programs Assistant

Torrance Montgomery

Torrance joined the Inland Empire Legal Aid (VLP) in July 2024 as the Legal Programs Assistant. A recent graduate of the University of San Francisco (‘24), she earned her degree in Politics with a minor in Criminal Justice. Passionate about legal advocacy and public service, Torrance supports IELA’s mission by assisting with program coordination and ensuring clients receive the help they need.

IELA Heroes

These are our amazing IELA volunteers. (Please do not reach out to them individually, you will get paired with them through IELA.)

Alex Johnston Family Law	Shayne Sutherland, Attorney Consumer Protection Landlord/Tenant Law
Dena Allen, Attorney Family Law	Brian Cameron, Attorney Consumer Protection Landlord/Tenant Law
Don Curran, Attorney Wills/Estate	Chris Hogue, Attorney Consumer Protection Landlord/Tenant Law
Shayla Maxey, LLLT Family Law	Betty Craipo, Attorney Family Law Wills & Estates
James Krueger, Attorney Housing Law Family Law	Josh Huber, Attorney Family Law
Richard White, Retired Judge Family Law	Gabby Roth, Attorney Family Law
Emily Arneson, Attorney Civil Law Government Law Contract Law	Darren Digiacinto, Attorney Bankruptcy Law
Lindsey Paxton, Attorney Family Law	Steve Bergman Family Law
Andren Moyer, LLLT Family Law	Lisa Dickinson, Attorney Wills & Estates
Jon Hammond, Attorney Contract Law Corporate Law Family Law	Glenn Tanner, Attorney Family Law