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American Bar Association Center for Global Programs Pro Bono Legal Specialist
Since 1990, nearly 10,000 volunteers—judges, attorneys, law professors, and legal specialists—have contributed more than $350 million in pro bono assistance to promote justice, economic opportunity, and human dignity through the rule of law around the world. The ABA’s Center for Global Programs (CGP) mobilizes legal professionals to join the Rule of Law Initiative and Center for Human Rights defend threatened advocates, protect vulnerable communities, hold governments accountable under law, and promote the rule of law.
For volunteer positions, the ABA Center for Global Programs considers professionals with a minimum of five years of relevant experience, a high level of energy and initiative, strong interpersonal skills, and relevant substantive legal expertise. International experience and foreign language skills are preferred but not always required.
Pro bono volunteers are recruited to assist programs implemented virtually, short-term assignments overseas, or for long-term posting in one of CGP’s country offices.
Many assignments can be conducted virtually, without the need for travel. Examples include desk reviews of reports, virtual training sessions of legal practitioners abroad, and other remote work.
All volunteer participants serving over 90 days abroad receive a support package that covers travel, housing, and general living and business expenses. In-country foreign language training and medical evacuation are also included. Participants serving for shorter periods will receive a similar but less comprehensive package. These Legal Specialists reside in host countries for varying periods and work closely with legal professionals, local governments, nongovernmental organizations, law schools, and other institutions to identify legal reform priorities and implement technical assistance projects.
Click here to learn more about the program for volunteer positions abroad.
