University of Missouri Pro Bono Program
This page is part of the LOVE Columbia information library website. To contact the organization listed below, please follow links or phone numbers given within the article.
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A formal pro bono program was established in 2013 to encourage students to engage in pro bono and civic activity while also being able to gain practical lawyering skills and serve persons with limited means.
The Mizzou Law Pro Bono Program does not provide any direct legal assistance. Law students are not permitted to represent individuals in legal matters unless they are working under the supervision of a licensed attorney. For this reason, we do not refer individuals or organizations seeking assistance to private attorneys. If you believe you need a lawyer, please contact the state bar association here. You may also find information regarding legal aid programs providing free legal help to low income and disadvantaged people in Missouri.
Any first-year student who completes 10 pro bono hours, and any second- or third-year student who completes 20 pro bono hours will receive a pro bono certificate at the end of the year recognizing their contribution. Special recognition may also be given to a limited number of students whose commitment to pro bono work was exceptional.
In accordance with ABA standards, the program defines pro bono broadly to include activities for the benefit of persons of limited means, whether or not law-related. In addition, work done for a non-profit with 501(c)(3) status and some governmental entities will also qualify. Participation in activities that grant school credit (such as an externship or clinic) will not qualify, but if the student completes hours above and beyond those required to receive credit, those hours may qualify.