What is meant by "pro bono" legal work?

"Pro bono" legal work refers to legal assistance that is provided without charge, primarily aimed at serving the public good. This practice arises from a commitment to ensure that legal services are accessible to those who may not otherwise afford them, thereby promoting justice and equity within the legal system. Lawyers or legal professionals engaging in pro bono work often assist individuals or organizations that lack the financial means to pay for legal representation, effectively supporting various community needs, such as those related to human rights, tenant rights, or underserved populations.

This principle is rooted in the ethical obligations of attorneys to contribute to society and to uphold the rule of law by protecting the rights of the marginalized. Pro bono work reflects a lawyer’s dedication to social justice and often helps to alleviate the burden on legal aid organizations that serve clients with limited resources.

Other options do not capture the essence of pro bono work accurately. Legal work performed only for governmental agencies does not reflect the broad scope of pro bono efforts focused on the public good. Consultations solely for corporate clients and unpaid work due to partnership arrangements also diverge from the primary goal of pro bono work, which is to provide free legal services for individuals and communities in need, rather than for profit-making entities or due to internal business structures.