Organized Pro Bono programs have existed in the United States for over a century, and provide options for those who may not have access to legal services.  The number of pro bono programs is continually increasing however, not all pro bono programs succeed and are effective. Due the changing nature and the multiple types of Pro Bono programs the Standards for Programs Providing Civil Pro Bono Legal Services to Persons of Limited Means provides guidance on the necessary elements of an effective pro bono program.   This includes, becoming effective and efficient in finding volunteers, meeting the clients’ needs, and providing high quality service for volunteer lawyers and clients.

The Standards have been crafted specifically for programs and components of programs which provide free civil legal services to persons of limited means through the use of volunteers. Even though this book is specific based, many other pro bono models can benefit from the standards and guidance this resource provides. This publication offers the “black letter” Standards adopted by the ABA House of Delegates in 2013 as well as updated commentary and practical resources for implementing the Standards.

A joint publication of ABA Publishing and the ABA Standing Committee on Pro Bono and Public Service.