LACBA News


Posted on: Oct 28, 2025
Beginning in 2026, the State Bar of California will require all active licensees to report their annual pro bono hours. Under Assembly Bill 2505, lawyers will report whether they provided pro bono legal services each year. While the first mandatory reporting will occur in 2026, the Bar will invite attorneys to voluntarily share their 2024 totals during the 2025 billing cycle.
 

According to Business and Professions Code Section 6073.1(c), “pro bono legal services” means providing (or enabling the delivery of) legal services without expectation of compensation, except for expense reimbursement, to:

  • An indigent person, as defined in subdivision (d) of Section 6213.

  • A charitable, religious, civil, community, governmental, or educational organization in matters that are designed primarily to address the needs of persons of limited means

  • A charitable, religious, civil, community, governmental, or educational organization in matters in furtherance of its organizational purposes

For many attorneys, pro bono work is more than a professional obligation. Offering legal expertise is a chance to make a tangible difference in people’s lives, strengthen the justice system, and uphold the profession’s highest values.

If you’re looking for ways to earn and track your pro bono hours, check out these L.A.-based opportunities!


Urgent Effort: 🎖️Volunteer as an SCRA Attorney

LACBA’s Armed Forces Committee is seeking legal volunteers to assist service members with obtaining relief under the Servicemember Civil Relief Act (SCRA).

Find out more about this initiative and how you can get involved.

 


💼 Attorney-Client Mediation and Arbitration Service

Serve as a volunteer arbitrator or mediator in attorney-client fee disputes through LACBA’s Attorney-Client Mediation and Arbitration Services—the largest program of its kind in California.

Volunteers help administer fair and efficient resolutions while gaining valuable experience and earning pro bono hours. Learn more about becoming a Fee Arbitrator

 


🎓 Dialogues on Freedom in L.A Schools

Now in its 22nd year, Dialogues on Freedom brings judges, attorneys, and law students together with high school classrooms to discuss constitutional rights and civic engagement.

Presented in partnership with the Los Angeles Superior Court, U.S. District Court (Central District of California), and Teach Democracy, this inspiring program needs volunteers to lead classroom discussions. Learn more about volunteering.
 


👩‍🏫 High School Mentoring Program

LACBA’s High School Mentoring Program, now in its 17th year, connects attorneys with students from local law magnet programs. Mentors can participate virtually and join field trips to courts and law schools.

Wilson High School’s Mock Trial Team is seeking attorney coaches for after school volunteering. 

Learn more about mentoring


Counsel for Justice Projects

Through LACBA’s pro bono partner, Counsel for Justice, attorneys can provide direct legal services to people in need across Los Angeles County. CFJ helps thousands of individuals and families access their legal rights each year. Work with the CFJ team (pictured) to provide direct legal assistance to the people in our communities who need it most, including survivors of domestic violence, immigrants, and U.S. military veterans. Explore volunteer opportunities


🌎 Rule of Law Pro Bono for Immigrants 

LACBA's easy-to-use directory of legal resources focuses on the Rule of Law, with a dedicated section highlighting legal clinics and volunteer opportunities for anyone interested in giving back to the community.

 

 


🔥 2025 Fire Victim Assistance Program

Assist L.A. residents affected by recent fires using links sign up for pro bono work. Help those who have reached out for help navigate the complex legal challenges resulting from the disaster.

 

 


⚖️ Superior Court of Los Angeles County

Be an MVP with the Mediation Volunteer Panel 

The County seeks attorneys to serve on its Mediation Volunteer Panel. Mediators to help resolve civil cases referred by judicial officers across the county. Donate just three hours per case with the option to bill for additional time. Review qualifications and apply.

Work to Launch SCLAC's Temporary Judge Program

Volunteers are needed to serve as Temporary Judges for a Superior Court pilot pro bono program. Serve the community while deepening your judicial and courtroom experience.


📚Quick Consults at LA Law Library

Once a month, downtown’s LA Law Library hosts Lawyers in the Library where volunteer attorneys provide free 20-minute consultations to community members. 

 


 


 

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