Capital University Law School's Pro Bono Legal Honors Program recognizes students who contribute 50 or more hours to approved projects during the course of their law school career. Students participating in the program gain valuable practical experience in the legal field and network with judges and attorneys while starting on the path to a career-long commitment to giving back.
Law students may do pro bono legal work under the supervision of a licensed attorney in a variety of settings, including
- Government agencies
- Courts
- Nonprofit organizations
- Corporate pro bono programs
- Law firm pro bono programs
- Externship (additional hours beyond course requirement)
Pre-approved pro bono placements include, but are not limited to:
- PACO Wills Clinic
- Interfaith Brief Advice and Counsel Legal Clinics
- Ohio Public Defender Wrongful Conviction Project
- Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA)
- Prosecutor/Public Defender/Legal Aid
- Excess externship hours at non-profit, government agency, or court
In addition to participating at pre-approved sites, students may create new opportunities. Such opportunities may include sites that give legal advice or resolve a legal problem through litigation, legislation, regulation, or alternative dispute resolution, but only to the extent consistent with the ethical constraints on the authorized practice of law. The work may involve legal services for persons of limited means or participation in projects for improving the law, the legal system, or the legal profession.
Students may not receive either compensation or academic credit for pro bono work. In addition, neither the supervising attorney nor the sponsoring organization may receive anything of value for the delivery of such legal services.
Law students who have successfully completed at least 50 hours of pro bono legal work at approved sites receive a certificate signed by the law school Dean and the Pro Bono Coordinator, their pro bono designation published on their academic transcripts, and recognition in the bulletin distributed during commencement exercises.
To learn more about our Pro Bono Legal Honors Program, contact Ashley Messick, Pro Bono Coordinator (614-236-6887).
Disclaimer
The Capital University Law School Pro Bono Legal Honors Program cannot provide direct legal advice or services to members of the general public. Law students performing pro bono service must be supervised by a licensed attorney. For assistance in obtaining legal representation, please consider the following resources:
Capital University Law School Legal Clinic (614-236-6245)
Columbus Bar Association
The Legal Aid Society of Columbus
Franklin County Public Defender