CY Pres Awards

Cy Pres Awards refer specifically to the undistributed residuals in a class action suit. However, there are other types of court awards, particularly negotiated settlements, which can be distributed to legal nonprofit organizations. Terms of negotiated settlements may provide for donations to one or more specific organizations. In class action settlements, the parties can stipulate that a designated non-profit receives residual funds after disbursement to the class.

Why Direct Cy Pres & Negotiated Settlement Agreements to a Legal Nonprofit Organization?

Legal nonprofit organizations across the country are often the recipients of these awards, as they exist to provide critical legal services to those who cannot afford private attorneys and are therefore unable to effectively access the system. The distribution of funds to legal nonprofit organizations can also occur through mediation, arbitration, and settlement agreements. These strategies, along with Cy Pres awards, can be valuable sources of funding for legal aid for low-income Virgin Islanders, providing financial support for under-resourced nonprofit organizations.

Our 501(c)(3) nonprofit law firm provides free legal representation, education, and resources for economic and social mobility. The Virgin Islands Rules of Civil Procedure require an adequate nexis and we meet that requirement by providing free legal representation, education, legal research and data to further access to justice.

Why is the VI Justice Initiative a good candidate to receive Cy Pres funding?

Our programs:

Clean Slate:
Free legal representation for expungement proceedings to clear arrest records and marijuana convictions to help people get back to work.

Teen Education & Criminal Deterrence Project:
Educational opportunities for teenagers to learn from attorneys that seemingly innocent behavior could actually be criminal in nature. The goal is to empower youth with the agency to make good decisions that can change the trajectory of their lives.

Legal Research and Data Support:
Develop legal research and data for policy change.

Systemic Change Advocacy:
High-impact litigation and class actions.

Engage, Network, and Partner with the Community