The Definition of Pro Bono in Law
“Pro bono publico” is a Latin phrase that’s typically shortened to “pro bono” when it’s used in the legal profession. It means “for the good of the people,” and it refers to legal services performed free of charge or at reduced fees for the public good.
The need for legal services among the poor is overwhelming, according to an American Bar Association study. At least 40 percent of low and moderate-income households experience a legal problem each year, yet studies show that the collective civil legal aid effort meets only about 20 percent of the needs of these low-income people.
Pro bono cases and services leverage the skills of legal professionals to help those who are unable to afford lawyers.
Who Receives Help?
Pro bono services help marginalized communities and underserved populations that are often denied access to justice due to lack of income. These often include children and the elderly.
A lawyer might also privately accept a case “pro bono,” meaning that she won’t charge a client in need for her services, or she’ll accept a significantly lower fee. She might also provide legal assistance to certain organizations that promote social causes, such as preventing domestic violence or even ecological issues.
She might devote time and effort to improving or amending the law or the legal system, such as through lobbying. She can contribute financial resources to organizations that provide free or reduced-fee legal services to clients of limited means. (: Sally Kane )
Outside the legal sector
Corporate pro bono efforts generally focus on building the capacity of local nonprofits or mentoring local businesses. There are many models that businesses use and tailor to their specific strengths. They may loan employees, provide coaching and mentoring, complete a service marathon, create standardized team projects, engage in open-ended outsourcing, provide sector-wise solutions, perform general contracting, or work on a signature issue.
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