NYC Pro Bono Center

Welcome to the NYC Pro Bono Center!

This site is designed to provide lawyers and law students who are interested in learning more about pro bono in New York City, and in taking or supporting a pro bono case, with information about volunteer opportunities, pro bono news, and access to training materials and other practice resources. Join now -- membership is free!

CLARO and the NYC Consumer Debt Defense Project

Only 3% of the 134,000 consumer debt defendants in NYC had a lawyer in 2011. The companies suing them - virtually 100%. Fortunately, there are ways you can help. Learn about CLARO, the city's leading consumer debt clinic, that operates through pro bono volunteers just like you. And please visit the brand new NYC Consumer Debt Defense Project, a vibrant online community for consumer debt experts and pro bono volunteers alike. We look forward to seeing you there!

Superstorm Sandy Legal Relief Efforts

Six months after Superstorm Sandy hit New York, many residents are now facing longer term questions: How do I get the insurance company to pay for repairs? What funding sources are available to restart my business?

Your help is critical. In the NYC Pro Bono Center, we've assembled training videos, manuals, and resources to help you prepare. Become a member today, and use your professional skills to help some fellow New Yorkers in need.

Use our new FEMA Appeals automated document template to prepare a response letter to a denial of benefits by FEMA.

Check out the recently recorded webinar,"Guide to Successful Resolution of Residential Claims Resulting from Superstorm Sandy" in the NYC Pro Bono Center Library.

Interested in working with domestic violence victims... the elderly... microentrepreneurs?

Pro Bono Opportunities: A Guide for Lawyers in New York State is a searchable online guide that will help you find organizations with the right case opportunities for you!

The Legal Aid Society's 2012-2013 CLE Pro Bono Training Program

Visit the new Legal Aid Society 2012-2013 Pro Bono CLE Training Program Portal Page, where you can find a complete schedule of all of the upcoming trainings.

Did you know...

You can earn CLE credits for doing pro bono work? Read the CLE rules on the NY Courts website for detailed information.

Host Organizations:

This site was developed with support from the New York Community Trust and the law firm of Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP.

Volunteer Profile

The Nassau County Bar Association presented the Thomas A Maligno Pro Bono Attorney of the Year Award for 2013 to Harold Somer of Salisbury for his deep dedication and passion to help others. Learn more