Pro bono work allows paralegals to provide free legal services to underserved communities, which can support career development and skill building. As of 2025, the National Federation of Paralegal Associations recommends 24 hours annually, while the ABA Model Rules encourage lawyers to facilitate paralegal participation in pro bono activities under attorney supervision.
Pro bono work offers paralegals a meaningful opportunity to contribute to their communities while gaining valuable experience. Whether you’re helping domestic violence survivors navigate family court, assisting seniors with estate planning, or supporting veterans with benefits claims, pro bono service connects you with clients who need legal help but can’t afford to pay for it.
For early-career paralegals and experienced practitioners alike, volunteer legal work provides hands-on experience in practice areas you might not encounter in your regular job. It’s also a chance to expand your professional network and demonstrate your commitment to the legal profession’s values. Many paralegals find that volunteer service becomes one of the most rewarding aspects of their careers.
What is Pro Bono Work for Paralegals?
The term “pro bono” comes from the Latin phrase “pro bono publico,” meaning “for the public good.” In the legal profession, it refers to professional services provided free of charge to people who can’t afford legal representation. For paralegals, pro bono work means volunteering your legal skills and knowledge to help underserved individuals and communities access the justice system.
The American Bar Association’s Model Rules of Professional Conduct states that lawyers should aspire to provide at least 50 hours of pro bono legal services each year. The ABA’s Model Guidelines for the Utilization of Legal Assistant Services also encourages lawyers to facilitate participation in pro bono activities for their paralegals and legal assistants.
The National Federation of Paralegal Associations (NFPA) recommends that paralegals contribute at least 24 hours of pro bono service annually. This recommendation recognizes both the value paralegals bring to pro bono work and the professional development opportunities gained from volunteer service.
Unlike lawyers, paralegals must work under attorney supervision when providing pro bono services, as outlined in ABA Model Rule 5.3. This means you’ll typically volunteer through legal aid organizations, bar association programs, or your employer’s pro bono initiative rather than providing services independently. This supervision requirement protects both you and the clients you serve while ensuring ethical compliance.
Benefits of Pro Bono Paralegal Work
Pro bono work offers significant professional and personal benefits that extend well beyond the satisfaction of helping others. Here’s what you gain from volunteer legal service:
| Benefit Category | Professional Impact | Career Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Skill Development | Hands-on experience in new practice areas | Broadens your capabilities and makes you more marketable |
| Career Advancement | Demonstrates commitment and initiative | Strengthens your resume and professional reputation |
| Networking | Connects you with attorneys and legal professionals | Opens doors to job opportunities and mentorship |
| Client Interaction | Direct contact with diverse client populations | Builds communication skills and cultural competency |
| Professional Recognition | Aligns with NFPA guidelines and professional standards | Shows commitment to legal profession values (employer expectations vary by firm and region) |
Many employers view pro bono service favorably during hiring and promotion decisions. It shows you’re committed to the legal profession’s values beyond just earning a paycheck. Some firms even require or strongly encourage pro bono participation as part of their professional development programs.
On a personal level, pro bono work provides a sense of purpose and accomplishment that’s hard to match. You’ll see firsthand how your legal skills can change someone’s life, whether that’s helping a victim of domestic violence obtain a protection order, assisting a senior citizen with Medicaid planning, or supporting a veteran in navigating disability benefits.
Types of Pro Bono Opportunities
Pro bono opportunities for paralegals span a wide range of practice areas and service models. Here are the most common types you’ll encounter:
| Service Type | What You’ll Do | Typical Time Commitment |
|---|---|---|
| Legal Aid Clinics | Client intake, document preparation, case research | 2-4 hours per clinic session* |
| Domestic Violence Services | Help with protection orders, custody issues, and housing assistance | Ongoing case support, 3-5 hours weekly* |
| Family Law Clinics | Divorce paperwork, child support calculations, custody agreements | Monthly clinic days, 4-6 hours* |
| Immigration Assistance | Application preparation, documentation gathering, and status checks | Case-based, 5-10 hours per case* |
| Senior Legal Services | Estate planning basics, advance directives, benefits applications | Quarterly workshops, 3-4 hours* |
| Veterans Services | VA benefits claims, discharge upgrades, housing support | Project-based, 4-8 hours per matter* |
| Housing/Eviction Defense | Tenant rights education, eviction paperwork, housing court support | Court days or ongoing clinic hours* |
*Time commitments are typical estimates and may vary significantly by program and organization.
Based on surveys conducted by legal aid organizations and bar association pro bono programs, the majority of paralegals who do pro bono work focus on family law matters. This includes divorce assistance, child custody and support issues, domestic violence protection orders, and guardianship matters. These cases often have immediate, life-changing impacts for clients facing crisis situations.
Many organizations also offer “unbundled” or limited-scope services where you help clients with specific tasks rather than full representation. This might include reviewing documents, explaining court procedures, or preparing forms. These discrete task projects can be easier to fit into your schedule while still providing valuable assistance.
How to Get Started with Pro Bono Work
Getting involved in pro bono work doesn’t have to be complicated. Follow these steps to find the right opportunity and make your volunteer service successful:
Step 1: Assess Your Skills and Interests
Start by thinking about what you’re good at and what areas of law interest you. If you have strong research skills, look for opportunities that need case law research. If you’re detail-oriented and organized, document preparation roles might be a good fit. Consider whether you prefer direct client contact or behind-the-scenes work.
Don’t worry if you want to try something outside your current practice area. Pro bono work is an excellent way to explore new specializations. Many paralegals use volunteer service to test whether they’d enjoy transitioning to a different type of legal work.
Step 2: Check Your Employer’s Pro Bono Program
Many law firms and legal departments have established pro bono programs. Ask your employer whether they offer paid time for pro bono work (where offered), malpractice insurance coverage for volunteer activities, or partnerships with specific legal aid organizations. Some firms count pro bono hours toward billable requirements or offer other incentives for participation.
Step 3: Find Opportunities in Your Community
Legal aid organizations, bar associations, and nonprofit legal clinics are always looking for qualified paralegals. Contact your local or state bar association’s pro bono coordinator to learn about available opportunities. Many cities have pro bono clearinghouses that match volunteers with appropriate projects.
Step 4: Understand Supervision Requirements
Before you commit to any pro bono work, make sure you understand who will supervise your work and how that supervision will be provided. You’ll need an attorney to review your work product, provide guidance on legal questions, and ensure compliance with ethical rules. Most organizations have clear supervision structures in place, but it’s important to clarify this upfront.
Step 5: Start Small and Build Your Commitment
You don’t need to commit to 24 hours immediately. Many paralegals start with a single clinic shift or a one-time project to see if they enjoy the work. As you become more comfortable, you can increase your involvement. Even a few hours per quarter makes a difference.
Requirements and Qualifications
While pro bono work is volunteer service, organizations still have standards for who can participate. Here’s what you need to know about requirements:
Education and Experience
Most organizations prefer volunteers who have completed a paralegal education program or have equivalent work experience. Some may require current certification, such as the Certified Paralegal (CP) credential from NALA or the PACE certification from NFPA, while others are more flexible. Entry-level opportunities often welcome newer paralegals who want to gain experience.
Supervision and Ethical Boundaries
This is critical: paralegals can’t provide legal advice or appear in court on behalf of clients (except in limited circumstances in some states). All your pro bono work must be under attorney supervision per ABA Model Rule 5.3. You can interview clients, prepare documents, conduct research, and explain procedures, but an attorney must review your work and be available for consultation.
Understanding the ethical boundaries of your role protects both you and the clients you serve. If you’re ever unsure whether a task crosses the line into practicing law, ask the supervising attorney.
Background Checks and Confidentiality
Many organizations require background checks for volunteers who will have direct client contact or access to confidential information. You’ll also need to understand and comply with attorney-client privilege and confidentiality rules, just as you do in paid work.
Malpractice Insurance
Check whether your employer’s malpractice insurance covers pro bono work done outside the office. Many state bar associations and legal aid organizations provide malpractice coverage for approved pro bono activities under their own policies. Don’t assume you’re covered—verify this before you start volunteering.
State-Specific Considerations
Some states have specific rules about paralegal qualifications for certain types of legal work. For example, California has detailed regulations in the Business and Professions Code Section 6450-6456 about who can call themselves a paralegal. Other states, including Florida, North Carolina, and Texas, also maintain specific requirements or voluntary certification programs. Make sure you understand your state’s requirements before advertising your services as a volunteer.
Organizations Offering Pro Bono Opportunities
Numerous organizations coordinate pro bono legal services and welcome paralegal volunteers. Here’s where to look:
Legal Aid Societies
Legal aid organizations provide free civil legal services to low-income individuals. They handle cases involving housing, family law, public benefits, consumer issues, and more. Most legal aid offices have volunteer coordinator positions specifically for recruiting and managing paralegal volunteers. Find your local program through the Legal Services Corporation directory.
Bar Association Pro Bono Programs
State and local bar associations typically run pro bono programs that match volunteers with clients or organize legal clinics. Contact your state bar’s pro bono committee or coordinator to learn about opportunities in your area. The ABA Standing Committee on Pro Bono and Public Service maintains resources and connections to state programs.
Specialized Legal Clinics
Many communities have clinics focused on specific populations or issues. Examples include immigration law clinics, veterans’ legal services, AIDS legal services, and disability rights organizations. These specialized clinics often provide training specific to their practice area.
Law School Clinics
Many law schools operate legal clinics where students provide supervised legal services to the community. These clinics often welcome paralegal volunteers to help mentor students and assist with casework.
Pro Bono Clearinghouses
Some cities and regions have clearinghouses that maintain databases of pro bono opportunities and match volunteers with appropriate projects. Examples include Pro Bono Partnership (serving nonprofits in multiple states, including NY, NJ, CT, and PA), regional volunteer lawyer networks, and state access to justice commissions.
National Organizations
Several national organizations coordinate pro bono legal services and may have local chapters or programs in your area. These include the ABA Standing Committee mentioned above, the National Legal Aid & Defender Association (NLADA), and specialized organizations like the Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights.
Balancing Pro Bono with Your Career
One of the biggest challenges paralegals face with pro bono work is finding time. Here’s how to make it work:
Set Realistic Goals
Don’t feel pressured to meet the NFPA’s 24-hour recommendation immediately. Start with what’s manageable for your schedule. Even 6-8 hours per year makes a meaningful contribution. You can always increase your commitment later.
Leverage Your Employer’s Support
If your employer offers paid time for pro bono work, take advantage of it. Many firms provide anywhere from 20-50 hours of paid pro bono time annually. Some also allow you to count pro bono work toward professional development requirements.
Choose Flexible Opportunities
Look for opportunities that fit your schedule. One-time clinic events, discrete task projects, and remote work options can be easier to manage than ongoing case commitments. Many organizations now offer virtual volunteer opportunities, including remote document review, legal research, client intake calls via video conference, and case file organization that you can do from home.
Track Your Hours
Keep careful records of your pro bono time, including the date, hours worked, type of service, and supervising attorney. This documentation is valuable for your professional portfolio, certification renewal applications, and some employers’ recognition programs.
Avoid Burnout
Pro bono work can be emotionally demanding, especially when you’re helping clients in crisis situations. Set boundaries around your availability, don’t take on more than you can handle, and practice self-care. It’s okay to say no or take breaks between projects.
Communicate with Your Employer
Be transparent with your employer about your pro bono commitments. Most firms and legal departments support volunteer work, but they need to know about your obligations so they can plan workloads accordingly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I do pro bono work without attorney supervision?
No, paralegals must work under attorney supervision when providing legal services, including pro bono work. This is an ethical requirement under ABA Model Rule 5.3 that protects both you and the clients you serve. The supervising attorney doesn’t need to be physically present for every task, but they must be available for consultation, review your work product, and take responsibility for the legal advice provided.
Do I need professional liability insurance for pro bono work?
You should be covered by malpractice insurance when doing pro bono work. Many employers’ policies extend to approved pro bono activities, and some state bar associations or legal aid organizations provide coverage for volunteers under their own policies. Always verify your insurance coverage before starting any pro bono work, and get written confirmation if you’re uncertain.
Will pro bono work help me advance my career?
Yes, pro bono work strengthens your professional profile in several ways. It demonstrates commitment to the legal profession, develops new skills, expands your network, and shows initiative beyond job requirements. Many employers view pro bono service favorably during hiring and promotion decisions. It’s also an excellent way to gain experience in practice areas you don’t currently work in, which can help you transition to new specializations.
How do I find pro bono opportunities in my area?
Start by checking with your employer about existing pro bono programs. Then contact your state or local bar association’s pro bono coordinator, who can connect you with opportunities. Legal aid societies, nonprofit legal clinics, and specialized service organizations (immigration clinics, veterans services, domestic violence programs) often need paralegal volunteers. Many cities also have pro bono clearinghouses that match volunteers with appropriate projects.
Can I count pro bono hours toward certification requirements?
This depends on your certification and state requirements. Some paralegal certification programs allow you to count continuing education hours earned through pro bono work toward renewal requirements. Check with NALA, NFPA, or your state-specific certification body about their current policies. Even if it doesn’t count toward formal requirements, documenting your pro bono work strengthens your professional credentials.
What if I don’t have experience in the practice area I want to volunteer in?
Many pro bono organizations welcome volunteers who want to learn new practice areas and provide training or mentorship. Start with opportunities that offer training sessions or pair new volunteers with experienced attorneys. You can also look for discrete task projects that don’t require deep subject matter expertise, such as client intake, document organization, or basic research. Pro bono work is actually an excellent way to explore whether you’d enjoy transitioning to a different legal specialization.
How much time do I really need to commit to pro bono work?
The NFPA recommends 24 hours annually, but even smaller commitments make a difference. Many paralegals start with a single 3-4 hour clinic session per quarter (12 hours per year) and increase their involvement as their schedule allows. Choose opportunities that fit your life rather than overcommitting and burning out. One-time projects, quarterly clinics, or discrete task assignments can be easier to manage than ongoing case responsibilities.
Are there remote or virtual pro bono opportunities?
Yes, many organizations now offer remote volunteer opportunities. You might conduct client intake calls via video conference, prepare documents, research legal issues, review case files, or organize digital records from home. Virtual legal clinics became more common during the pandemic and many continue to operate remotely. Ask potential volunteer organizations whether they offer remote options if that better fits your schedule or circumstances.
Key Takeaways
- Paralegals must always work under attorney supervision for pro bono work per ABA Model Rule 5.3 and cannot provide legal advice or represent clients independently.
- Pro bono service strengthens professional credentials through skill development, networking, and demonstrated commitment to legal profession values, with employer expectations varying by firm and region.
- The NFPA recommends 24 hours of pro bono service annually for paralegals (as of 2025), though even smaller commitments provide meaningful impact for underserved communities.
- Common opportunities include legal aid clinics, domestic violence services, family law assistance, immigration work, senior services, veterans support, and housing defense, with flexible options available.
- Start by checking your employer’s pro bono program (where offered), then contact local bar association coordinators or legal aid societies to find supervised volunteer opportunities in your community.
- Verify malpractice insurance coverage before volunteering, as some employer policies extend to approved pro bono work, while other legal aid organizations provide their own coverage for volunteers.
- Virtual and remote opportunities now allow paralegals to contribute through document review, legal research, client intake calls, and case organization from home on flexible schedules.
Ready to Build Your Paralegal Career?
Pro bono work is just one way to strengthen your professional credentials and make a meaningful impact in the legal field. Explore paralegal education programs, certification options, and career resources that can help you achieve your goals.
