Tackling The Overlooked Obstacle To Pro Bono Work: Not Having A Clue How To Do It - Above the Law

"When a law student signs up for a pro bono matter through Paladin, they'll also get access to targeted, skills-based PLI training tailored to that specific type of work. The idea is straightforward: integrate PLI's training programs directly into Paladin's law school pro bono platform to help law students get the specific training they need to help the community."

"Pro bono work presents a uniquely thorny version of this problem. When a first-year associate shows up at a Biglaw firm not knowing how to draft a motion, the firm should have every financial incentive to train them. For all the rosy talk about pro bono commitments, they aren't as eager to burn time on training."

"Law students, meanwhile, are doing a staggering amount of pro bono work. The class of 2025 contributed more than 5.1 million hours of legal services, amounting to over $178 million worth of work. With their souls still somewhat intact, law students are a motivated population and could do even more."

Pro bono work presents unique challenges for law students and lawyers seeking to contribute to their communities. While some practice areas naturally accommodate pro bono service, others like investment company law lack clear opportunities. Beyond professional apathy, willing lawyers often feel unqualified and uncertain about pro bono work specifics. Law students face particular difficulties, lacking foundational skills for any legal work. A new initiative between Paladin, a pro bono management platform, and the Practising Law Institute addresses this gap by integrating targeted, skills-based training directly into law school pro bono platforms. When students sign up for pro bono matters, they receive tailored training for that specific work type. This approach tackles the persistent gap between law school education and practice demands, a problem especially acute in pro bono contexts where firms lack financial incentives to invest in training.

Read at Above the Law