For over 37 years, our students have supported a wide range of projects that make
a meaningful impact across the state. Pro bono publico in Latin translates to, "for the public good." For lawyers, this means providing
legal services to people in need.
Expand all Need Legal Assistance?
If you are looking for an attorney, please contact the South Carolina Bar Lawyer Referral Service to find a licensed attorney. If you are unable to afford an attorney, start with
South Carolina Access to Justice's Legal Resource Finder or apply for assistance with South Carolina Legal Services .
Volunteers in the Pro Bono Program are current law students. They are not attorneys
and, by law, cannot provide legal services, such as:
Reviewing or preparing documents
Conducting legal research on your behalf
Representing you in any legal matters
You may also apply for assistance through GROW South Carolina (small business and
nonprofit) or the Pro Bono Clinic (general civil legal assistance) using the links
at the bottom of this page.
What is Pro Bono?
Pro bono work is:
voluntary;
uncompensated;
law-related work;
performed under the supervision of an attorney;
to assist persons of limited means or organizations that serve persons of limited
means.
See, generally, RULE 6.1 - South Carolina Judicial Branch.
See, What is Pro Bono? for further information about hours that count towards Pro Bono Distinction at graduation.
For Current Law Students
The Pro Bono Program is open to all SC Rice Law students, regardless of graduation
year. Participation is entirely voluntary, but students are encouraged to follow the
American Bar Association's guidance of contributing 50 hours of service per year.
By engaging in pro bono work, students can:
Explore potential career paths
Develop lasting legal skills
Build professional networks
Make a difference in the lives of others
Getting Started:Jefferson Coulter , or connect with a Student Board Member .
All participants must agree to abide by the Ethical and Professionalism Guidelines for SC Rice Law Students Engaged in Pro Bono
Work .
Please note: Students are not licensed attorneys and cannot offer legal advice. All
work must be supervised by a licensed South Carolina attorney.
Student Opportunities
The range of opportunities to serve is varied and ever changing. Details about the
different projects avaiable to students can be found on our Volunteer Opportunities page.
For Members of the Bar
Interested in mentoring or working with our student volunteers? Carolina Clerks connects attorneys handling pro bono matters with law students who are eager to assist.
Benefits of partnering with us:
Access to motivated, capable student volunteers
Support for your pro bono caseload
Opportunity to mentor future legal professionals
All students must work under the supervision of a licensed South Carolina attorney
and follow the program’s ethical guidelines.
In addition, all SC Rice Law Pro Bono volunteers must read and agree to abide by an understanding of the ethical
and professional obligations (Ethical and Professionalism Issues for SC Rice Law Students Engaged in Pro Bono Work ) that may arise during their pro bono work.
Learn more about how you can collaborate with Carolina Clerks by contacting Jefferson Coulter
For Future Students
Considering SC Rice Law? The Pro Bono Program is a proud part of our academic mission.
We invite you to explore our projects and see how public service is woven into the
law school experience.
Questions or ideas? Feel free to contact Jefferson Coulter to learn how you can be part of this legacy of service.
For Alumni
As a graduate of SC Rice Law, you are a part of the legacy of the nation’s first voluntary
law school pro bono program. We’d love to hear how you’re continuing your commitment
to service.
Together, we can continue building a strong culture of service for the next generation
of lawyers. Feel free to contact Jefferson Coulter regarding anything listed above.
Partner Organizations 