Pro Bono Project
Since 1991, pro bono service has been a key component of the leadership development of Duke Law students.
As one of the earliest formal law school programs in the country, the Pro Bono Project takes learning beyond the classroom, connecting students with attorneys working in non-profit and governmental organizations, as well as private pro bono practice to explore and contribute to public service, sharpen their legal and professional skills, and build relationships important to their future careers.
Students also are educated about the gaps in the legal delivery system and are given the chance to become involved in work that benefits the community, such as providing legal services to low-income individuals, researching important policy issues, participating in the legislative or judicial system, or teaching constitutional law to high school students.
Duke Law collects information on pro bono hours and involvement in pro bono and public interest work by JD, LLM and JD/LLM students. The reports are used for: (1) bar admission requirements in some states; (2) awarding summer funding: (3) recognition at the end of year and graduation ceremonies; and (4) national reporting to organizations like the American Bar Association.
In order to keep your records up to date, we ask that you complete one report each semester; you may update your information as many times as you wish during the course of the semester.
At Duke Law School, participation in the Pro Bono Project is voluntary but all students are encouraged to participate. Students are invited to sign the Pro Bono Pledge in which they commit to contribute a minimum of 50 hours of law-related community service, including pro bono or clinic field work, during their time as students.