Student Responsibilities and Procedures

Selecting a Project

Students should view the pro bono requirement as not only an opportunity to provide valuable legal assistance to the community, but also as a way to explore their career interests, improve their legal skills and interact with potential future contacts. Students should make sure that their pro bono project is a good fit.

Initial Meeting

The student is responsible for contacting the supervisor prior to the beginning of the placement to discuss the project, the supervisor’s expectations, hours required and the work schedule.

Professionalism

The student should perform all work in a timely and professional manner. If the student is unable to complete the work in a satisfactory manner, s/he should immediately inform the Supervisor and the Pro Bono Program director.

Confidentiality

The student will maintain confidentiality for all work done on client cases. The work should not be discussed with anyone other than the supervisor.

Satisfactory Performance

If the student does not complete the project to the satisfaction of the supervisor, the hours worked will not count toward the 50-hour pro bono requirement. Difficulties in meeting this requirement should be brought to the attention of the program director as soon as the student encounters the problem.

Submission of Paperwork

The student is responsible for ensuring that all paperwork is complete and received by the Pro Bono Program director by the appropriate deadlines.