One of the most common questions we get is about pro bono work. It is a difficult question to answer, but here are 8 common types:
1. Animal Rights
Animals are incapable of advocating for themselves in our system. There are many organizations and pro bono opportunities to assist abused animals, prevent further abuse, and criminalize animal abusers.
2. Domestic Abuse
Domestic abuse is an extremely complicated topic. It is often difficult for victims of domestic abuse to leave their abuser due to fear, financial dependency, children, guilt, and/or complex emotional attachment. Victims of domestic abuse require special assistance to protect them and navigate through our legal system. There are many organizations and pro bono opportunities to assist victims of domestic abuse and bring their abusers to justice.
3. Child Abuse
Child abuse is one of the most popular areas that lawyers choose to perform pro bono work. Children of all ages require special protections to stop and prevent child abuse. The pro bono opportunities to assist children are seemingly endless.
4. Assisting the Elderly
Elderly individuals are often disenfranchised and isolated. Many are more vulnerable to scams and physical or emotional abuse. There are many pro bono opportunities available to assist the elderly from criminalizing elder abuse to providing simple legal advice for free.
5. Housing or Tenants’ Rights
Many people who are facing foreclosure or living in horrible conditions cannot afford an attorney. There are many pro bono opportunities available to counsel individuals about their rights or assist them in housing proceedings.
6. Immigration Rights
Immigrants face a special set of obstacles in our legal system. For example, there is often a language and culture barrier that complicates things. Frequently, they are also unaware of their rights or the resources available to them. There are many pro bono opportunities to assist immigrants with legal paperwork/applications and in immigration proceedings.
7. Criminal and Prisoners’ Rights
Criminals and prisoners often face abuse or lack of appropriate access to legal assistance. There are many pro bono opportunities available to fight police brutality, overturn wrongful convictions, and advocate for prisoners’ rights.
8. Assisting Disabled Individuals
Many disabled individuals require special assistance to enforce their rights and protections. Some disabled individuals may also be more vulnerable to abuse. There are many pro bono opportunities and organizations that assist disabled individuals, including veterans.
Hopefully this helps clear the air!
source http://www.winterwoodlodge.com/8-types-of-pro-bono-work/
