The Pro Bono Program
Why We Serve
“[E]qual justice under law is not merely a caption on the facade of the Supreme Court building, it is perhaps the most inspiring ideal of our society. It is one of the ends for which our entire legal system exists ... it is fundamental that justice should be the same, in substance and availability, without regard to economic status.”
—U.S. SUPREME COURT JUSTICE LEWIS F. POWELL JR.
“I think lawyers who engage in pro bono service to protect those who cannot help themselves are truly the heroes and the heroines of the legal profession.”
—JANET RENO, THE FIRST WOMAN TO SERVE AS U.S. ATTORNEY GENERAL
Established in 1999, the Law School’s Pro Bono Program seeks to cultivate in students a lifelong commitment to the provision of legal services to communities in need. We believe that members of the legal community have a professional obligation to provide quality legal services to those who could not otherwise afford representation.
The program offers all students — from first-years to LL.M.s — the chance to use their developing legal skills to help clients in need and ensure access to justice for all. Opportunities range from providing in-person assistance to victims of violence seeking protective orders to working on impact litigation for civil rights and racial justice. By participating in the Pro Bono Program, students will engage in meaningful legal work and gain practical skills while providing critical legal services to underserved communities in Charlottesville, Virginia and beyond.
More: Why Do Pro Bono?
Pro Bono Facts, 2019-20
Hours Logged
14,394
by 339 students
The Challenge
91
Class of 2020 graduates completed the 75-hour challenge
Winter Break
135
students logged hours at 98 organizations
Alternative Spring Break
60
students logged hours
The Pro Bono Experience
Students and alumni discuss their experiences volunteering to help others.
Public Service News

Contact
The Pro Bono Program
probono@law.virginia.edu
(434) 924-3883