The Pro Bono Practice Program offers attorneys the opportunity to contribute their legal skills and expertise to Californians in need.
Participants who qualify can have their State Bar annual fees waived when they provide free legal assistance exclusively with approved providers and engage in no other activities that require active status.
See program description in Rule 3.327 of the State Bar Rules.
Not only will participating attorneys have the opportunity to deliver much-needed legal services to the most vulnerable populations in their communities throughout the state, but participation provides professional benefits, including:
Volunteer opportunities may vary depending on the need of the client community. Pro bono opportunities may include:
Requirements
In order to serve as a pro bono practice attorney, an attorney must:
Pursuant to State Bar Rule 3.329, a pro bono practice program attorney must annually report the number of pro bono legal services hours provided to the pro bono legal services provider. An attorney must, in partnership with the pro bono legal services provider, track the hours provided each calendar year. The State Bar will require each attorney to report hours provided in spring of each year.
Application process
In order to serve as a pro bono legal services provider, an organization must be:
If you have a question, please see the Pro Bono Program FAQ or contact the State Bar at PCPP@calbar.ca.gov or 415-538-2252.