New York Bar Pro Bono Requirement

On September 14, 2012, the New York State Court of Appeals adopted a new rule requiring applicants for admission to the New York State bar to perform 50 hours of pro bono services. This page lists the links you can use for further information on this Requirement.

Frequently Asked Questions

All bar applicants should refer to this document as it explains who is required to satisfy the Requirement, what kind of activities qualify, where the pro bono work can be performed, and what documents must be included in your Application for Admission to demonstrate your compliance.  You will note that the Berkeley Law and New York Bar Pro Bono definitions differ.  For example, unlike Berkeley Law, the New York Bar Pro Bono definition recognizes pro bono services performed in exchange for academic credit in a law school clinic or field placement.  In addition, LL.M. students may include pro bono work performed within a year before they commence their degree at Berkeley Law or any time after graduation.   

The Form Affidavit of Compliance

You will need to complete this form for each pro bono project that you will rely on to satisfy the Pro Bono Requirement. It is recommended that you complete the form at the time you complete each qualifying pro bono work project. If you are participating in SLPS or BLAST, the appropriate “Category of Service” on the Form Affidavit is “Law School Sponsored Program.”

For questions and additional information:

If you have questions or to seek prior approval of a pro bono project, please email the Advisory Committee on New York State Pro Bono Bar Admission Requirements appointed by the Chief Judge at ProBonoRule@nycourts.gov.