Pro Bono Frequently Asked Questions

No.

Training/continuing legal education (CLE) seminars are generally an important part of pro bono projects. This helps to guarantee that clients will receive the most effective service possible, and volunteers can be confident in knowing that they have been well-prepared. In addition, many programs have mentors available to assist lawyers who are less experienced in dealing with poverty law issues.

Organized pro bono generally operates more effectively and efficiently for clients and participating lawyers than does informal pro bono. Since many Ohio counties have no organized pro bono projects of their own, the Ohio Legal Assistance Foundation is committed to increasing the number of county-based programs.

Community service of any type is laudable. But because attorneys have a monopoly on the provision of legal services, they are the only people in our society who can directly respond to the problem of unequal access to justice. Lawyers therefore have a professional obligation to help those individuals who would otherwise be unable to afford legal assistance.

Legal aid providers' malpractice insurance usually covers volunteer projects.

Since most pro bono programs are connected with legal aid providers, pro bono attorneys are typically covered by these providers' malpractice insurance policies.

Bar associations also often have coverage that can be used by volunteers who are uncertain about whether their private malpractice insurance would be effective.

Call 1-800-877-9772, the Ohio Legal Assistance Foundation (OLAF) to be linked with attorneys who have structured/administered law firm guidelines that both deal with malpractice concerns and facilitate pro bono.

Is pro bono just for urban areas?

No.

Pro bono is vitally important in both rural and urban areas. Because the number of lawyers in smaller communities tends to be comparatively low, there is frequently an even greater need for organized pro bono in the rural areas of the state.

I want to start a new pro bono program. How do I get started?

The first step can be as simple as calling the Ohio Legal Assistance Foundation at 1-800-877-9772.

We are able to provide materials, technical support, project planning, and other services that can advance new initiatives.

We want to assist bar leaders in exploring the many ways that they can help to provide justice for all.

Who should be involved in developing a pro bono program?

People who are familiar with the needs of the community and with the needs of prospective volunteers should be involved.

One might also want to work with the local judiciary to address scheduling difficulties and other problems that could discourage participation by attorneys.

A collaborative approach can help to avoid future barriers to success.

Are there bar leaders with whom I can speak regarding their pro bono startup efforts?

Yes.

The Ohio Legal Assistance Foundation would be happy to connect you with attorneys who have started pro bono projects. Additionally, there are many excellent pro bono professionals in Ohio who are happy to share their expertise and experiences with you.

Please contact us by phone (1-800-877-9772) to find out how to link-up with these resource people.

How are pro bono projects administered?

There are many ways to administer a pro bono program, both formally and informally, with or without staff.

Some programs operate independently while others are administered by a bar association, a legal aid office, or a local non-profit agency.

I'm a judge. Is there anything that I can do?

Yes.

The judiciary plays an essential role in the delivery of pro bono services. Judges can help to set a tone within the legal community that pro bono is an expected and valuable contribution from members of the bar.

Judges can assist in recruiting, training, and recognizing the achievements of volunteers. Judges can also be important partners in developing new programs by ensuring that scheduling and docketing are done in an efficient way that serves the needs of volunteers, clients, and the courts.

I'm a government attorney. Is there anything that I can do?

Absolutely.

Search the pro bono directory for opportunities that exist for government attorneys.