Pro bono should be free choice
Article Abstract:
Mandatory pro bono would exacerbate public displeasure with lawyers and it would also be unconstitutional. The costs would have to be passed on to clients, making legal services out of reach for the middle class. Mandatory pro bono would also violate attorneys' First Amendment rights, forcing them to support other people's speech. Mandatory pro bono might also violate the 14th Amendment, since no other profession is required to render its services without compensation. A more creative solution, such as training non-lawyers to perform some types of legal services, needs to be found.
Publication Name: The National Law Journal
Subject: Law
ISSN: 0162-7325
Year: 1992
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Developing strategies for controversial cases; deference to paying clients can obscure a firm's pro bono vision
Article Abstract:
Law firms will need to develop a standard for evaluating controversial pro bono cases in their attempts to meet the ABA's 'Law Firm Pro Bono Challenge.' Potential cases should be evaluated by the 'modified-issue conflict standard, the most conservative way of checking for conflicts of interest. Firms should try to keep all sides reasonably happy by accepting a mixture of cases, and they should make sure paying clients know of the firm's commitment to pro bono work. Pro bono work for non-profit organizations can be the best way to use a large firm's skills.
Publication Name: The National Law Journal
Subject: Law
ISSN: 0162-7325
Year: 1993
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Pro bono lawyers are sought for animal rights
Article Abstract:
There is increasing public concern for animal rights and a growing need for attorneys to volunteer their time in this area of pro bono work. The increase in the number of amicus curiae briefs in the last five to six years is a sign of interest in such cases. The amount of space devoted to animal rights in the popular press is a clear sign of public interest.
Publication Name: The National Law Journal
Subject: Law
ISSN: 0162-7325
Year: 1992
User Contributions:
Comment about this article or add new information about this topic:
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