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Justice in Action: Record Your Pro Bono Service What is Justice in Action? Justice in Action is your opportunity to voluntarily and anonymously record your hours of pro bono service. In September of 2007, the Supreme Court issued its Statement Regarding the Provision of Pro Bono Legal Services by Ohio Lawyers. The Statement announces that, to document the legal profession’s commitment to equal access to justice, the Court will, in conjunction with the Ohio Legal Assistance Foundation, develop a means by which Ohio lawyers may report voluntarily and anonymously pro bono activities and financial support for legal aid programs. How may I record my pro bono service if I choose to do so? In January of 2009, you will receive an email from the Supreme Court which will contain a link to an external website, where you will be able to anonymously record your hours of pro bono service, and amount of financial support for legal aid programs, for calendar year 2008. You will receive a similar email in January of each year thereafter, for the preceding calendar year. Begin your recordkeeping now! What are considered pro bono legal services? According to the Statement, pro bono legal services are devoting “professional time and resources and…civic influence to ensure equal access to our system of justice for those who because of economic or social barriers cannot afford or secure legal counsel.” Pro bono legal services are providing legal assistance to persons of limited means who cannot afford such assistance; providing legal counsel to charitable organizations that may not be able to pay for such services; OR making a contribution to an organization that provides legal services to persons of limited means. Where may I find more information about Justice In Action? Call the Ohio Legal Assistance Foundation at 614-752-8919, or 800-877-9772; FAQ’s and more information will be available soon at www.olaf.org. Also read more Frequently Asked Questions about pro bono service and reporting.
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