Pro bono is a Latin phrase short for "pro bono publico," which means "for the public good." It generally refers to professional work—most traditionally legal services—voluntarily provided without payment or at a significantly reduced cost. Pro bono services are offered to individuals, nonprofits, or communities that cannot afford to pay for them. While it originally referred mainly to free legal services by lawyers, the term now applies to any professional offering their expertise voluntarily for public benefit. Key points about pro bono work include:
- It is unpaid or discounted professional services.
- It is intended to help those who cannot afford such services.
- It is often related to access to justice, social justice, or public interest.
- Pro bono work can involve lawyers, medical professionals, consultants, and other experts.
- There is a long tradition and ethical encouragement, especially in the legal profession, to provide pro bono services.
Examples include free legal advice, medical treatment, or strategic consulting for nonprofits or low-income individuals. Pro bono work is important for promoting access to services that might otherwise be inaccessible due to cost. In summary, pro bono means professional services done voluntarily and without payment, primarily for the benefit of the public or disadvantaged groups. This definition and explanation are supported by various sources on legal and professional pro bono work and its broader applications. The term is widely accepted across multiple disciplines as a commitment to public good through voluntary expertise.
