How to Research a Firm's Pro Bono Program

Pro bono is a meaningful differentiator between BigLaw firms. Some firms have deep, well-funded programs with full-time pro bono counsel. Others count pro bono hours for billing credit but provide little institutional support. Here's how to tell the difference.

Key Metrics

Average pro bono hours per attorney. The Am Law 200 reports this annually. Anything above 50 hours per attorney is solid; above 80 is strong. Look at the trend over time, not just one year.

Whether pro bono counts toward billing requirements. At some firms, pro bono hours count fully toward your target. At others, they count partially or not at all. This single policy tells you more about the firm's commitment than any marketing language.

Full-time pro bono staff. Firms with dedicated pro bono counsel or coordinators take it seriously. They can connect you with opportunities and supervise your work.

Questions to Ask

• "Does pro bono count toward the billing target? Is there a cap?"
• "What types of pro bono matters do associates typically work on?"
• "Is there a full-time pro bono coordinator?"
• "Can associates take on pro bono matters as a primary assignment?"

Where to Research

The Pro Bono Institute publishes data on law firm pro bono participation. NALP also collects pro bono data. Cross-reference with firm profiles on the firm directory for a complete picture.

Why It Matters

Even if public interest isn't your career goal, a strong pro bono program tells you something about the firm's values. It also gives you opportunities for courtroom experience, client contact, and meaningful work that billable work sometimes lacks, especially in your early years.

For more on researching firms, see how to tell BigLaw firms apart.