You didn’t survive law school, the Bar exam and endless CLEs just to draft contracts for people who already have power. You became a lawyer to make an impact. And in Florida, that calling isn’t just a vibe — it’s built into the rules of the profession.
Under the Rules Regulating The Florida Bar, every lawyer is expected to provide 20 hours of pro bono legal service each year or contribute $350 to a legal aid organization. You also have to report your pro bono activity annually.
Ideally, pro bono should be done though a legal service provider.
Florida has made it clear: Access to justice matters and lawyers are part of the solution.
But here’s the thing — pro bono shouldn’t feel like a compliance checkbox you remember right before your annual Bar filing. It should be part of who you are as a lawyer and part of the culture of the firm you work for.
For younger attorneys or those looking to branch into other areas especially, pro bono is a cheat code. You get real clients, real stakes, courtroom experience and the chance to do meaningful work early in your career.
While some associates wait years to touch a case from start to finish, pro bono puts you in the driver’s seat now. It builds confidence, skills and credibility all while helping someone who genuinely needs it.
Let’s talk about the bigger picture. Florida’s legal aid organizations are overwhelmed. Tenants are facing eviction without lawyers. Survivors of domestic violence need protection orders. Clinics need lawyers to help answer questions and give guidance to those who will be representing themselves.
That’s why we need you to step up. When lawyers sit out, justice doesn’t pause. It just passes people by.
Pro bono isn’t charity. It’s justice and it’s part of the job.
Start today by scanning the QR code above or click below:
https://sites.google.com/jaxlegalaid.org/jala-pro-bono-opportunities/home