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.”
—JUSTICE LEWIS F. POWELL JR.
“We educated, privileged lawyers have a professional and moral duty to represent the underrepresented in our society, to ensure that justice exists for all, both legal and economic justice.”
—JUSTICE SONIA SOTOMAYOR
Established in 1999, the Law School’s Pro Bono Program cultivates a lifelong commitment to the provision of legal services to those in need. We believe that lawyers have a professional obligation to provide pro bono services and ensure access to justice for all.
The program offers all students — from first-years to LL.M.s — the chance to use their developing legal skills on behalf of underrepresented communities and causes. Opportunities to volunteer range from providing assistance to victims of violence seeking protective orders to working on impact litigation for civil rights and racial justice. Through their participation in the Pro Bono Program, students engage in meaningful legal work and gain practical skills while providing legal services to underserved communities in Charlottesville, Virginia and beyond.
More: Why Do Pro Bono?
Pro Bono Facts, 2021-22
Hours Logged
16,340
by 388 students
The Challenge
99
Class of 2022 graduates completed the 75-hour challenge
Winter Break
6,500
hours logged by 194 students at 101 organizations
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