Peer Review Process
Each year, MLAC uses a peer review model to assess a select number of its grantees.
MLAC contracts with legal aid professionals outside of Massachusetts to serve as independent consultants for the peer review process. Reviewers are selected based on their work experience with legal aid organizations and their knowledge of nonprofit management and program evaluation.
MLAC’s goals for the monitoring process are to:
- Show that the organizations have met a particular level of quality and quantity of services
- Improve the substantive work and managerial practices of legal aid organizations
- Identify and address client needs and systemic issues
Interested in becoming a Peer Reviewer?
Qualifications
You are:
- Collaborative
- Committed to delivering vital services to populations in need
- Knowledgeable in substantive area(s) common to legal aid organizations
- A strong writer
- Skilled at interpersonal communication
You have:
- 5+ years of work experience in a civil legal aid organization
- Capacity for objectively analyzing data (quantitative, qualitative, anecdotal) pertaining to the organization being reviewed
- Skill to convey an insightful critique and provide recommendations that can result in organization improvement
You will:
- Interview staff and board members to gather insight on organizational culture and operations
- Work alongside other peer reviewers to assess programs according to performance standards developed by MLAC (based on American Bar Association’s Standards for the Provision of Civil Legal Services
- Craft a report identifying strengths, challenges, and recommendations to improve performance
FAQs
- What does the commitment for this process look like?
- The peer review process typically spans 6 to 12 days, contingent on the size of the organization being reviewed and the number of peer reviewers participating. The interview phase can take up to 3 days, while the remaining contract period is dedicated to analyzing data, crafting a draft report, and ultimately submitting a comprehensive final report.
- Will I be compensated?
- Yes! Peer reviewers are paid $1,000 per 8-hour day
- How will the interviews be conducted?
- MLAC reviews are currently conducted via Zoom, but in-person interviews may be an option (with expenses covered).
- Do I have to be in a supervisory position to be considered?
- Not at all! This opportunity is open to attorneys and other professionals, provided you fulfill the qualifications.