​Chief Justice Thomas G. Saylor has asked lawyers to support the Commonwealth’s civil legal aid programs by providing pro bono service through direct representation and financial contributions.

In a letter to Pennsylvania’s approximately 70,000 registered lawyers, the chief justice also thanked attorneys for their support of legal aid programs as a component of their annual attorney registration fees. The letter is being widely distributed to the legal community by the courts and the Pennsylvania Bar Association.

The Chief Justice's letter recognizes that every Pennsylvanian deserves their day in court, even if the ability to pay for counsel is limited. The letter states that The Pennsylvania Supreme Court supports civil legal aid in a variety of ways, from funding a loan forgiveness program for legal services practitioners to honoring the work of pro bono volunteers.

The Chief stressed that it is the volunteer efforts of Pennsylvania lawyers - whether through directly representing clients or providing additional financial support - which most greatly impact those in need.

Attorneys were also encouraged to visit the website at www.PaLawHelp.org and to register with the online legal community at www.PAProbono.net to encounter a wide range of available opportunities for pro bono service. Attorneys were also asked to consider taking advantage of pro bono videos which will soon be offered by the Pennsylvania Bar Institute, accompanied by free continuing legal education credits.