Pro Bono Opportunities for Lawyers
Help Make a Difference
Many people in Washington, DC go to court without a lawyer. They may be at risk of eviction, involved in a custody dispute, seeking safety through a civil protection order, or being sued by a debt collector—but can’t afford legal representation. While legal aid groups work hard to help, they have limited resources and can’t serve everyone who needs assistance. That’s where you come in.
The DC Courts are committed to making sure everyone has a fair chance to be heard. If you’re eligible to practice in DC, your skills can help people in our community gain access to justice.
Whether you’re new to pro bono or looking for new opportunities, here are some helpful resources to guide you:
Not sure how to get started? Email us at ProBonoOpportunities [at] dccsystem.gov and we’ll help you find the right opportunity.
Enrollment for the 2025 Capital Pro Bono Honor Roll closed on February 20, 2026. The Honor Roll will be published on the Courts’ website in the spring. Enrollment for the 2026 Capital Pro Bono Honor Roll will open in January 2027.
Capital Pro Bono Honor Roll
The DC Courts, with support from the D.C. Access to Justice Commission and the D.C. Bar Pro Bono Center, established the Capital Pro Bono Honor Roll in 2011. Since then, it has continued annually to recognize the contributions made by lawyers providing pro bono services to those who cannot afford counsel, as well as to disadvantaged small businesses and community-based nonprofits.
Lawyers who complete:
- 50+ hours of pro bono service are eligible for the Honor Roll
- 100+ hours are eligible for the High Honor Roll
5,400 attorneys registered for the 2024 Capital Pro Bono Honor Roll, with 3,033 achieving High Honor Roll status.
Volunteer at the DC Courts
Aside from pro bono representation, there are opportunities for lawyers and others to volunteer at the Courts:
Stay in the Loop
The DC Courts host events for lawyers to learn about pro bono needs in our courts and community. Email ProBonoOpportunities [at] dccsystem.gov to be added to our event mailing list.
You can make a difference in our local courts and community. Learn why these lawyers choose pro bono in the DC Courts.
Help Clients of Modest Means
Many people don’t qualify for free legal aid but still can’t afford full legal fees. DC Refers is a directory of lawyers who help clients of modest means at reduced rates.
Are you interested in joining the directory?
Learn more about how our Access to Justice Unit is working to reduce the civil justice gap.