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House of Representatives
Session of 2015 - 2016 Regular Session

MEMORANDUM

Posted:	October 27, 2015 11:29 AM
From:	Representative Madeleine Dean
To:	All House members
Subject:	Resolution Urging the Pennsylvania Supreme Court to Require the Completion of Pro Bono Work Prior to Practicing Law

In the near future, I plan to re-introduce former House Resolution 107 urging the Pennsylvania Supreme Court to require aspiring lawyers to complete pro bono work prior to receiving a license to practice law in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. This resolution passed out of committee by a vote of 24-1 last session. Taking effect this year, aspiring New York lawyers are now required to complete 50 hours of free legal service prior to practicing law. Although New York has taken the lead in establishing these requirements for bar admission, 21 national law schools already require students to complete pro bono work in order to fulfill graduation requirements, as reported by The Wall Street Journal. Since many aspiring lawyers currently provide free legal service prior to practicing law, I believe that Pennsylvania should mandate that all prospective Pennsylvania lawyers provide these essential services. This requirement will not only provide prospective lawyers with valuable and practical experience, communities and organizations impacted by the declining budgets of the Commonwealth will receive vital assistance to ensure that legal services are provided to all in need. My resolution urges the Pennsylvania Supreme Court to require the completion of 50 hours of pro bono service prior to receiving a license to practice law in the Commonwealth. This service is to be provided to those individuals with limited financial means, non-profit organizations, civil right groups, and government entities.

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