Legal Speak Made Easy

“Pro Bono”

“Pro bono” (or “pro bono publico” meaning “for the public good”) is normally used in the context of free legal advice and assistance given by lawyers to people unable to afford them, but it can also refer to other professional services provided voluntarily and without charge.

Per the Law Society of South Africa, “To qualify for free legal assistance, a person must comply with a ‘means test’ (a maximum monthly or no income) and have a legal problem with merit … If a referral is made to a pro bono attorney, the client is responsible only for the cost of disbursements (actual expenses), such as Sheriffs’ fees, and the attorney will not charge any fees for the work and legal services provided.”