NY
New York Assembly Bill A08318

New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Assembly Bill A08318

Introduced
5/13/25  

Caption

Authorizes a requirement of pro bono service as a condition of admission to the bar or attorney registration; exempts pro bono work performed pursuant to an agreement with the federal government if the federal government designates the recipients of the pro bono work or type or types or nature of such legal services; provides for the expiration of such provisions upon the expiration thereof.

Impact

The impact of A08318 on state laws includes an amendment to the judiciary law concerning the criteria for bar admission. By instituting this pro bono requirement, the bill aims to expand access to legal services for underserved populations and communities. This addition could also influence law schools and training programs, as it underscores the importance of practical experience in public service alongside academic qualifications. As such, the bill could lead to a more comprehensive evaluation of candidates' capabilities and commitment to community service as part of their legal training.

Summary

Bill A08318 introduces provisions regarding pro bono service requirements for attorneys and candidates seeking admission to the bar in New York. The bill mandates that candidates must complete a specified number of pro bono service hours prior to their application for bar admission. However, it stipulates that hours worked under federal agreements, which specify recipients or types of legal services, will not count towards this requirement. This intention is to encourage legal practice benefiting those in need while balancing the requirements placed on prospective attorneys.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding A08318 involve the implications for law firms and their ability to require participation in federally funded legal services. The bill explicitly prohibits law firms from mandating that employees engage in pro bono work associated with federal agreements, which may raise discussions among legal professionals about the balance between community service requirements and the autonomy of legal employment practices. Critics may argue that this could limit the impact of federally supported legal efforts, while supporters assert it preserves the integrity of voluntary service and fosters a higher level of holistic legal training.

Companion Bills

NY S07860

Same As Authorizes a requirement of pro bono service as a condition of admission to the bar or attorney registration; exempts pro bono work performed pursuant to an agreement with the federal government if the federal government designates the recipients of the pro bono work or type or types or nature of such legal services; provides for the expiration of such provisions upon the expiration thereof.

Previously Filed As

NY A07577

Establishes the hospice and palliative care workgroup; provides for the repeal of such provisions upon expiration thereof.

NY A07136

Authorizes counties with a population of one million or more persons to undertake certain public works pursuant to project labor agreements; authorizes the use of the alternative delivery method known as design-build contracts; provides for the repeal of such provisions upon expiration thereof.

NY S08174

Authorizes counties with a population of one million or more persons to undertake certain public works pursuant to project labor agreements; authorizes the use of the alternative delivery method known as design-build contracts; provides for the repeal of such provisions upon expiration thereof.

NY S08164

Authorizes the town of Chester to impose a five percent hotel and motel tax; provides for the repeal of such provisions upon expiration thereof.

NY A09289

Authorizes the town of Chester to impose a five percent hotel and motel tax; provides for the repeal of such provisions upon expiration thereof.

NY A06556

Authorizes the city of Beacon to impose a hotel and motel tax; provides for the repeal of such provisions upon expiration thereof.

NY S06590

Authorizes the city of Beacon to impose a hotel and motel tax; provides for the repeal of such provisions upon expiration thereof.

NY A08341

Authorizes and directs the office of children and family services to conduct a study on the family assessment response program; provides for the repeal of such provisions upon expiration thereof.

NY S07819

Authorizes and directs the office of children and family services to conduct a study on the family assessment response program; provides for the repeal of such provisions upon expiration thereof.

NY S04073

Authorizes the town of Cornwall in Orange county to impose a five percent hotel and motel tax; provides for the repeal of such provisions upon expiration thereof.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.