Connecticut House Bill HB05086

Connecticut 2013 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/9/13
• Refer: 1/9/13

Caption

An Act Concerning The Completion Of Pro Bono Legal Work By Attorneys Whose Income Is Derived From State Funds.

Impact

The proposed legislation could have significant implications for lawyers working in various capacities funded by the state. By instituting this requirement, the bill aims to enhance access to justice for underserved populations and encourages attorneys to engage in charitable legal practices. This is particularly relevant in areas of law where vulnerable populations require assistance, such as family law, housing issues, and civil rights. The expectation for attorneys to fulfill this requirement may lead to increased support for legal aid organizations and enhance the overall capacity of the legal community to serve those in need.

Summary

House Bill 5086 aims to establish a mandatory pro bono requirement for attorneys who derive a significant portion of their income from state funds. Specifically, the bill mandates that any attorney receiving 50% or more of their annual income from state sources must perform at least 40 hours of pro bono legal work within that calendar year. This initiative seeks to ensure that attorneys engaged in public service through their paid work also contribute to the legal needs of the community, particularly for those who may not afford legal representation.

Contention

Notably, while the bill has the potential to bridge gaps in legal services, it may also face resistance from some attorneys who argue that the mandated nature of the requirement could place an undue burden on their professional responsibilities. Concerns may also arise regarding the enforcement of the pro bono hours and whether the definition of acceptable pro bono work is adequately defined. The debate could center around balancing the ethical obligations of attorneys with practical challenges that may hinder their ability to meet the required hours of service.