Pro bono is a Latin phrase that refers to labor performed by a lawyer on a pro gratis basis. All attorneys are urged to donate part of their time to represent persons who would not have access to justice otherwise. These are "pro gratis" cases.
When a civil legal practice accepts a case pro bono, it is frequently for marketing purposes, in order to bolster its image. However, it does not like to enrage its paying clientele, and hence picks "safe scenarios." More significantly, pro bono attorneys are rarely as efficient as professional legal aid attorneys, nor are they as capable of handling complex cases as their professional counterparts. On the other hand, if a civil company with a large number of associates, paralegals, and support personnel decides to devote its resources to a time-consuming matter, the result might be rather stunning.
Pro Bono Representation
As previously stated, pro bono services are provided by individual attorneys and legal firms. Consider the following searches to find one.
- The American Bar Association maintains a Pro Bono Resource Directory. Among the results may be certain legal assistance offices and individual law firms.
- Make an appointment with your local or state bar association (a professional organization dedicated to advancing the careers and education of its members). Conduct a search for the bar association in [Your state or city]. You may come across attorneys who advertise their readiness to take cases for free.
- In your state, contact the organization or state body that regulates legal licensure. Conduct a search for [Your state's] attorney licensing. The website may provide information about which attorneys or companies provide pro bono counsel.
- Visit a nearby law school. Numerous schools operate free legal clinics where students, supervised by professionals, take on cases.
- Make contact with the local courthouse. Recognizing that cases proceed more swiftly and efficiently when everyone has counsel, many court administrators have made a point of connecting interested lawyers with clients in need.
- Make contact with your local church or another place of worship. Certain religious groups, local chapters, and temples of worship provide legal help to their members.
What if you cant find a pro bono lawyer? There's always an option to find a normal one. We have a blog to know-how.
