pro bono

American

[proh boh-noh] / ˌproʊ ˈboʊ noʊ /

Or pro-bono

adjective

(of legal work) without charge to the client.

The firm offers pro bono legal services. He took the case pro bono.

Etymology

Origin of pro bono

First recorded in 1720–30, pro bono is from Latin prō bonō “for (the) good, rightly, morally”

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

He provides pro bono representation in animal-rights cases.

From Los Angeles Times • May 1, 2026

Miranda started his legal career working in state and municipal law and policy and also works as a pro bono immigration lawyer.

From Los Angeles Times • May 1, 2026

Since then, Ringstrom has lined up a pro bono lawyer, but she has also lost her job, “likely due to the ongoing coverage” of her arrest.

From Salon • Apr. 15, 2026

That availability goes for both pro bono clients and for paid clients.

From Slate • Mar. 5, 2026

Mary Miller and the Guardian ad Litem Program staff headed the guest list, which also included Martha Cook, who had been my pro bono Attorney ad Litem.

From "Three Little Words: A Memoir" by Ashley Rhodes-Courter

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023