Finding a Pro Bono Lawyer
Some attorneys may be willing to take your case pro bono, or for free. Here’s how to find a pro bono lawyer in California.
As most attorneys want to be paid for the work they do, finding a pro bono lawyer can be difficult. Contact law firms, courts, law schools, and other local institutions and ask if they can find you a pro bono lawyer. Or, get free consultations with attorneys that can provide you no-cost legal advice.
What is a pro bono lawyer?
A “pro bono” attorney volunteers to work free of charge. California lawyers typically take cases “pro bono” if the client cannot afford an attorney, or if the case is “for the public good”. Because pro bono lawyers are not paid for their services, it can be hard to find an attorney that works free of charge.
What does “pro bono” mean?
“Pro bono” is a Latin phrase that means “for the public good” if something is “pro bono”, it is free, or without charge. If someone works pro bono, it means that they are not receiving pay for the work they are doing. Pro bono work is usually done to help the public good.
How do pro bono lawyers get paid?
Pro bono lawyers are typically not paid and volunteer to work free of charge. Clients may then ask, why do attorneys take cases pro bono at all? Attorneys take cases pro bono to help out low-income clients or to defend the public good. California lawyers also may enjoy public recognition for their pro bono services.
1. Call Up Your Local Pro Bono Services
Give your local courts a call and ask if they can get you in touch with a pro bono lawyer. It’s not uncommon for them to do so. Law schools typically offer programs for students to gain legal experience helping clients that can’t afford licensed attorneys. Call up some law schools in your area and ask if they have such programs.
2. Ask Well-Known Law Firms If They Can Help
Also, talk to law firms about your case and ask if they’d be interested in taking your case pro bono. Well-known law firms may offer pro bono services for public recognition if your case is “for the public good”. If they don’t offer pro bono services, request a free consultation. You can learn a lot about your case just in your first meeting with an attorney, which is usually free.
3. Contact Her Lawyer
While Her Lawyer does not offer pro bono services, our experienced lawyers recognize the financial needs of each client and will try to create a payment plan that works for you. One of our attorneys can give you free legal advice in your initial consultation.
Do lawyers have to do pro bono work?
California attorneys are by no means required to do pro bono work. Lawyers can volunteer to work pro bono, but do not have to. Contrary to common belief, clients are not entitled to pro bono attorneys if they cannot afford to hire a lawyer.
How to Get a Pro Bono Lawyer for Child Custody
One way to get a pro bono lawyer for child custody is to contact well-known law firms and ask if they’d like to take your case pro bono. If they don’t offer pro bono services, call your local courts and ask if they can get you in touch with a pro bono lawyer. Judges may appoint legal aid lawyers to individuals in child custody cases that cannot afford an attorney.
How to Get a Pro Bono Lawyer for a Criminal Case
If you cannot afford an attorney to defend your criminal case, the State of California will appoint you a public defender free of charge. California lawyers may be willing to take your case pro bono. Call up local criminal defense law firms, discuss your case, and ask if they’d be willing to take your case pro bono.
Free Consultation With an Attorney in California
If you need to find a pro bono lawyer in California, contact us. We’ll get you in touch with the most qualified, affordable attorney for your unique legal issue. Get your free consultation with one of our affordable attorneys in California today!