The term “pro bono publico” (Latin for “for the public good”) refers to professional work undertaken voluntarily and without payment. In the legal world, pro bono services provide crucial access to justice for individuals and organizations who cannot afford standard legal fees.
Who Benefits From Pro Bono Legal Help?
Pro bono services primarily assist:
- Low-income individuals and families
- Vulnerable populations (seniors, veterans, disabled persons)
- Victims of domestic violence and discrimination
- Nonprofit organizations serving the public good
- Social enterprises and community groups
Common Types of Pro Bono Legal Cases
1. Family Law Matters
- Child custody and support cases
- Divorce proceedings for domestic violence survivors
- Adoption and guardianship assistance
2. Housing Issues
- Eviction prevention and defense
- Landlord-tenant disputes
- Foreclosure assistance
3. Immigration Assistance
- Asylum applications
- Special Immigrant Juvenile Status cases
- VAWA (Violence Against Women Act) petitions
4. Consumer Protection
- Debt collection defense
- Predatory lending cases
- Bankruptcy counseling
How to Find Pro Bono Legal Assistance
1. Through Legal Aid Organizations
- Local legal services corporations
- State bar association programs
- Nonprofit legal aid societies
2. At Law School Clinics
- Many law schools operate free legal clinics
- Services provided by supervised law students
- Often specialize in specific areas of law
