Thank you for completing your legal assessment with Start Small Think Big. We’re excited to connect you with pro bono experts who can help with your business’s legal needs. This page walks you through what happens next. If you have questions along the way, email legal@startsmallthinkbig.org.
What to expect after your legal assessment
You’ve completed your legal assessment. Here’s what to expect while we work to connect you with pro bono legal experts.
Updated September 2026
Pro bono attorney matching process
We assign your requests to pro bono attorneys based on their availability and expertise. Because Start Small relies on pro bono support, we can’t guarantee how long a match will take. Depending on the legal issue, it can take a few weeks or a few months to find the right attorney. We’ll email you as soon as we’ve matched at least one of your requests. You can always email legal@startsmallthinkbig.org with questions or to ask for an update.
Multiple pro bono attorneys
If your needs span multiple legal areas, we may split your requests among pro bono attorneys at different law firms. If you’re ever unsure who’s helping with which need, email legal@startsmallthinkbig.org.
Legal consultation events
You may also get legal help through a legal consultation event: a 30- to 60-minute virtual or in-person session with a pro bono attorney about a specific question or issue. If an upcoming event fits your needs, we’ll reach out to see if you’d like to join.
Working with your pro bono attorneys
Conflicts check
Before a pro bono attorney can help you, their firm has to confirm there’s no conflict of interest. For example, the firm may already represent your commercial landlord. If there’s a conflict, we’ll let you know and match you with a different attorney.
Communication
You’ll get emails from Start Small and your pro bono team or teams throughout this process. Check your inbox regularly, including your spam folder, so nothing slips through.
Work product
Start Small doesn’t keep copies of work product your pro bono attorney sends you. Please keep your own copies of that work and any related email communications.
Costs and fees
Pro bono attorneys provide their services at no cost, but you may still owe external fees, such as filing fees. Some law firms use outside services, such as a company that specializes in filing documents with a government agency, that come with their own costs. Your pro bono attorney should flag any fees in advance. Ask them to clarify anything that’s unclear.
Changes in your situation
Let us know if your legal needs change, including if you no longer need assistance, or if you run into communication issues with your pro bono team. We’re here to help you sort it out.
Have new legal needs?
You’re eligible for Start Small’s services for one year from your onboarding date. If new legal needs come up during that time, sign up for another legal assessment or email legal@startsmallthinkbig.org. After the year is up, you’ll need to reapply to keep receiving services.