Pro bono
Pro bono is a
phrase derived from
Latin meaning "for the good". The complete phrase is
pro bono publico, "for the public good." It is used to designate
legal or other professional work undertaken voluntarily and without payment, as a
public service. In some cases
pro bono counsel may assist an individual or group on a legal case, in filing government applications or petitions or on appeal. If the case is won, occasionally the Judge may determine that the loser should compensate the
pro bono counsel.
Lawyers in the
United States are recommended under
American Bar Association (ABA) ethical rules to contribute at least fifty hours of
pro bono service per year
[1]. Some state
bar associations, however, may recommend fewer hours. The
New York State Bar Association, for example, recommends just twenty hours of
pro bono service annually
[2], while the
New York City Bar promulgates the same recommendation as the ABA
[3].
*
List of Latin phrases*
Taproot Foundation - National Pro Bono Service Provider*
American Bar Association--Center for Pro Bono*
Pro Bono Net*
Pro Bono Law of BC -- pro bono service provider in British Columbia, Canada *
The Pro Bono Institute*
Example of a typical pro bono case*
Legal Services of New Jersey--Contributing Pro Bono Services
