Pro Bono Service

Stetson University College of Law has a long history of fostering a commitment to pro bono in its students and graduates. JD students are required to perform a total of 60 hours of pro bono service during their law school careers. Thirty (30) of those hours must be law-related service, supervised by an attorney. The remaining 30 hours may be general community service, which is classified as non-legal public service work. Students who perform at least 120 hours may receive the William F. Blews Pro Bono Service Award at graduation. 

Both pro bono and community service work are often referred to as Stetson Law's Pro Bono Program. The pro bono requirement exists to help bridge the justice gap and to empower those most vulnerable in our community. According to the Legal Service Corporation's 2022 Justice Gap Study, low-income Americans do not receive any or enough legal help for 92% of their substantial civil legal problems. Pro bono plays an important role in addressing the unmet legal needs of low-income individuals and the organizations that serve them. By participating in Stetson Law's Pro Bono Program, students gain practical skills while helping promote a justice system that is fair and accessible to everyone, regardless of their income or circumstances. 

If you are an attorney seeking pro bono help from our students, visit the Office of Career and Professional Development's For Public Interest & Pro Bono Providers page.