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.
The Office of Career and Professional Development works with student organizations, legal service providers, government agencies, law firms, and other community partners to connect students to a wide variety of pro bono projects and opportunities. If you are an attorney seeking pro bono help from our students, visit our For Public Interest & Pro Bono Providers page.
Pro Bono Graduation Requirement
For JD students, there is a requirement of 60 pro bono hours.
Public Interest & Pro Bono Providers
Your organization may work with Stetson Law students by either offering a pro bono or community service placement. Learn how to partner with our law students in the Tampa Bay area and beyond.
New York Bar Pro Bono Admission Requirement
The state of New York requires all applicants for admission to the New York Bar to perform 50 hours of law-related pro bono service.
Seeking Legal Help?
We are not a law office and cannot provide legal assistance, advice, or referrals to members of the general public. If you are seeking legal assistance, we suggest you contact your local bar association or check Florida Law Help for free or low-cost legal aid assistance. The Florida State Bar also provides resources for Floridians who need help finding an attorney.
Students, faculty, and staff can find additional information on the Pro Bono Intranet website.