Pro bono provides attorneys the opportunity to pursue ideals by representing those who are most in need. In addition, a conventional career path may not have led the veteran attorney to hold employment that involves full- time advocacy of causes that first inspired the attorney to choose law as a career. On a practical level, many attorneys settle into a specialty, and pro bono service work may bring variety to an otherwise predictable routine. There are benefits for experienced attorneys as well. A successful pro bono experience causes lawyers to feel that they have made a positive difference in the life of another person and also increasing the quality of their own life.

As they handle pro bono assignments, new lawyers are able, early in their careers, to meet and interact with judges and veteran opposing counsel who will usually respect the lawyer's pro bono participation.Īdditionally, law firms increasingly find that young and talented recruits are attracted to robust pro bono opportunities. The knowledge acquired through these mentor relationships carries over into all aspects of a budding legal career. In addition, veteran attorneys are often willing to play the role of mentor for new attorneys who are providing pro bono services. New lawyers have the opportunity to gain valuable experience by handling matters that involve issues of great importance to indigent clients. There are also substantial benefits for the lawyers who provide these services. Pro bono service has tremendous value for the indigent individuals and communities that are the direct beneficiaries. (This is an example of community service since the attorney is not providing legal services). (This is an example of pro bono service since the attorney is offering services to a program that provides direct legal services to low-income individuals).Ĭoordinating a community drive to collect used furniture for the poor. Membership on the board of directors of a poverty law program.

(This is an example of community service since the majority of people served by the opera company are not low-income). Membership on the board of directors of a nonprofit opera company. (This is an example of pro bono service since the attorney is providing legal services to a low-income client). Helping a low-income client facing mortgage foreclosure. Mentoring a low-income and underprivileged teenager. Other good works for the community are regarded as 'community service.” To illustrate the distinction between pro bono service and community service, consider the following examples.Ĭounseling an indigent consumer about the terms of a rent-to-own furniture contract. Qualifying pro bono legal services must involve the use of unique legal skills possessed by attorneys. See current federal poverty guidelines chart.ĭistinguishing Pro Bono Service & Community Service For 2019, eligible pro bono clients must have incomes that do not exceed the following amounts that correspond to the number of people living in their household. The poverty guidelines are set by the federal government. In Michigan, eligible pro bono clients have incomes that do not exceed 200 percent of federal poverty guidelines. Pro Bono Service Income Limits Based on Household Size Under the Voluntary Standard and other pro bono policies adopted by SBM, pro bono service is defined as legal services (as opposed to general community service), provided for free or at a reduced fee (50 percent or below the current market value for similar legal services in your community), to low-income individuals (individuals and families at or below 200 percent of federal poverty guidelines) or to organizations providing direct services to low-income individuals. Thankfully, each year, many Michigan attorneys do both. Active members of the State Bar are encouraged to support the direct delivery of pro bono legal services to low-income people or make financial contributions to the ATJ Fund to financially support legal aid programs that provide free civil legal assistance to low-income clients. SBM's Voluntary Pro Bono Standard (Voluntary Standard), as adopted by the Representative Assembly, is a policy of the State Bar. Many members of our society not in the legal profession also regard the provision of pro bono services as a noble contribution that is respected, appreciated, and admired. Many Michigan lawyers regard pro bono legal service as a personal endeavor, as well as an aspirational obligation. Pro bono service has become a well-established tradition among members of the legal profession. Thank you for your interest in pro bono service and the State Bar of Michigan’s (SBM) A Lawyer Helps Pro Bono Honor Roll (Honor Roll). Pro Bono Service & the Pro Bono Honor Roll

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