Every lawyer, regardless of professional prominence or professional work load, has a responsibility to provide legal services to those unable to pay, and personal involvement in the problems of the disadvantaged can be one of the most rewarding experiences in the life of a lawyer. Neb. Ct. R. § 3-506.1 cmt. 1.
CALL TO ACTION FOR MEMBER SUPPORT OF PRO BONO LEGAL SERVICES
One in eight Nebraskans lives near or below the poverty income level. As public citizens, lawyers are called to be mindful of deficiencies in the administration of justice and of the fact that the poor, and sometimes persons who are not poor, cannot afford adequate legal assistance. Nebraska lawyers have a special responsibility to provide pro bono legal services.
Upholding the promise of equal access is a long-term commitment that requires action from all sectors of the legal community: law schools, bar associations, the courts, firms and other legal employers. Pro bono lawyers are necessary to bridge the widening gap between the legal needs of those who cannot afford legal services and the resources available to meet the needs. Personal involvement in the problems of the disadvantaged can be one of the most rewarding experiences in the life of a lawyer.
Join the Call to Action for all members of the Nebraska State Bar to renew a commitment to access to justice through pro bono service. The American Bar Association urges all lawyers to provide a minimum of 50 hours of pro bono service annually. The NSBA will proudly recognize those that take the pledge on the VLP website, its social media and The Nebraska Lawyer magazine.
Submit pledge electronically or download the Pro Bono Pledge form and return to the Nebraska State Bar Association at [email protected]