The Virginia State Bar Now Has a Pro-Bono Portal
“Pro bono” is a Latin term meaning “for the public good.” It refers to legal services provided voluntarily by attorneys for free or at a significantly reduced rate to serve the public interest. If you are an individual with limited means, a first responder, or represent a non-profit organization, you may be able to benefit from this important service.
The American Bar Association recommends practicing attorneys contribute at least 50 hours annually as part of an ethical obligation to the communities we serve; and now the Virginia State Bar (VSB) has a pro-bono claim portal. Keep reading to learn more about its features and what it means to you.
When Did VSB Launch the New Pro-Bono Portal?
The VSB officially launched its new statewide pro bono portal on January 23, 2026. The platform was developed in partnership with Paladin, a leading technology company, to centralize and streamline legal volunteer opportunities across the state. Paladin designed the portal with an aim at closing the justice gap. The goal is to increase pro bono legal work by connecting law firms, in-house legal teams, and law schools with legal service organizations in an effort to efficiently match volunteers with people in need.
What Are the Key Features of the VSB Pro-Bono Portal?
The new pro-bono portal is feature-rich and low-friction, to ensure a user-friendly experience. This centralized hub for pro bono opportunities offers visitors robust search features where lawyers, law students, and legal professionals can browse a statewide database of real-time pro bono opportunities based on their specific interests, skills, and availability.
Individuals seeking legal aid will find centralized access to various programs and opportunities for a wide range of legal matters. It connects all eligible low-income Virginians with volunteers for help with essential legal matters such as civil law, veterans’ affairs, housing, and consumer issues, faster than ever before. The platform also provides information about specialized topics, such as Will clinics or document preparation in underserved communities.
Why Is the VSB Pro-Bono Portal Important?
VSB’s portal initiative aims to bridge the “justice gap” by making it easier for the legal community to engage with those in need. By harmonizing with other Pro Bono Virginia initiatives, the VSB hopes to scale pro bono growth and ensure that volunteers can find meaningful work that fits their professional capacity.
It also increases access to justice by reducing the difficulty of finding pro bono help, directly connecting community members with qualified volunteer attorneys, and potentially securing free legal assistance. The organization’s portal simplifies finding various legal services by streamlining their connection to Qualified Legal Service Providers (QLSPs) in legal fields from family law to disability advocacy.
Reach Out to Discuss Your Questions About Virginia’s Pro Bono Portal
Having access to qualified legal professionals is crucial for the vulnerable members of our community, and MichieHamlett PLLC answers the call in central Virginia. Our skilled legal team maintains a strong commitment to pro bono activities, often integrating public service into our personal injury and medical malpractice firm.
Attorneys like Bryan Slaughter and Ashley Davis have been recognized for strengthening access to justice through their pro bono work. So, if you believe you qualify for free or reduced legal fees, reach out to our office to discuss your unique situation.