Calling All Attorneys!

Several times a month, the Virginia Coalition for Open Government fields calls from citizens on the verge of filing a FOIA lawsuit. The form for filing a suit in district court is relatively straightforward, and FOIA cases are put on an expedited docket. Still, citizens are understandably wary of embarking into the judicial system without guidance.

Consequently, many of the citizens who call us are also looking for a lawyer.

Some citizens have the means and willingness to pay the attorney’s full fee. Some are looking for help at a reduced rate, and some are hoping for some pro bono help.

VCOG is currently developing a roster of attorneys to whom we can refer these citizens. We are looking for attorneys who would at least be willing to talk to these individuals, deciding whether the case has merit, and negotiating a fee agreement if need be.

If you are an attorney who would like to be added to this list of willing attorneys, please send a message to vcog@opengovva.org or call 540-353-8264. There is no charge and no obligation to take on a case or client.


VCOG will also be offering a one-hour FOIA review course to local bar associations and other groups of attorneys. An application for one hour of MCLE credit is currently pending before the State Bar.

If you are interested in having VCOG make its FOIA presentation to your organization or group, please contact Megan Rhyne at vcog@opengovva.org or 540-353-8264.