How to Contact a Pro Bono Attorney

Pro bono attorneys donate time to help low-income clients.

In most jurisdictions, there is a requirement that attorneys dedicate a certain number of hours per year toward pro bono services. The reason for this is that there are always a large proportion of people who cannot afford legal representation. There are a number of ways that you can go about seeking attorneys who are looking to donate their time for the benefit of a person who needs legal services and cannot afford it.

Instructions

1. Contact an attorney you know. Looking for an attorney can be a difficult process. If you are seeking legal advice or representation and cannot afford it, you may be in luck if you know an attorney on a personal basis. You can try to approach the attorney and see if they are willing to provide pro bono service. Because attorneys are members of bar associations, they are normally well connected with other attorneys and may be able to refer you to another attorney who needs to commit to pro bono hours.

2. Go to a local law school. A lot of times, schools run clinics and workshops headed by law students and professors who are passionate about donating their time to the service of those in the community. Again, if they cannot provide the services that you are looking for, they will likely be well connected in the community and will be able to direct you to the right person.

3. Look at your local county bar association as a good source. Most attorneys who practice within a county are members of the local bar association. Local bar associations usually require attorneys to donate a certain number of hours for pro bono legal services. The county also will have a legal aid society. The legal aid society will have a list of local attorneys who are looking to fulfill pro bono hours and will match you up with an attorney who can help.

References

• Public Interest Law
• Legal Aid