Pro bono: Meaning, Explanation, Examples & Case Laws

Literal meaning	For the good
Pronunciation	proh BOH-noh

Work done for the public good, usually without payment. In law it usually means free legal help for people who cannot pay.

Example

A senior advocate represents a poor litigant free of charge.

Statutory link

Article 39A of the Constitution of India: the State must provide free legal aid.
Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987 sets up the system of free legal aid.

Exam tip

Asked with legal aid and Article 39A.

Memory trick

Pro bono = for good, for free.

Key takeaway

Pro bono means legal work for the public good, without fee.