COVID-19 created a health, economic and civil justice crisis. As attorneys, YOU can help abate that crisis.

The Maryland Attorney General, Maryland Judiciary, Maryland State Bar Association and Maryland Access to Justice Commission are proud to join forces to deliver an urgent call to action for pro bono. We strongly urge every attorney in Maryland to take at least one pro bono case or provide a designated number of pro bono service hours over the next year to help in the areas with the most acute need, namely housing, consumer, public benefits or family law.

Please sign up now to answer the call.

All pro bono providers in Maryland are taking part in the call to action and the Pro Bono Resource Center of Maryland (PBRC) is helping implement the call. PBRC will match you with the pro bono organizations across the state that are poised to help you get connected to remote or in-person opportunities; train in your area of interest; and receive the support you need to successfully help Marylanders with their civil legal cases at a time they need it the most. Sign up is easy: https://probonomd.org/call-to-action/. Answer the call now!

What Prompted the Pro Bono Call to Action?

COVID-19 exacerbated the problem that pre-existed the pandemic – that 80% of those looking for civil legal help, did not receive it. Now, the surge in civil cases as a result of COVID-19 is expected to be staggering.

One of the key recommendations coming out of The Attorney General’s COVID-19 Access to Justice Task Force was to have a “coordinated call to action to increase pro bono services to respond to the spike in civil legal needs arising from the COVID-19 pandemic.”

How can Attorneys Help?

Marylanders fare much better when they navigate the civil justice system with the help of an attorney. As attorneys, your skills and talents can make the difference between a person losing their home, having food on the table or keeping their family safe.
We are sensitive to the fact that the pandemic is still ongoing and your personal risk assessment in relation to it may complicate your ability to take a case, but we urge you to step up and answer the call if you are able.

Who will benefit from the Pro Bono Call to Action?

Marylanders who would have navigated the civil justice system on their own will be the direct beneficiaries. Organizations from across the state will receive volunteers and connect them to people who need civil legal aid in the communities they serve.