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Pro Bono Attorney Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

Washington DC Summer Associates, under attorney supervision, work on current client matters ... Pro bono service and diversity and inclusion are core values here at Nelson Mullins. As you think ...

We are a peoplefirst firm recognized for our award-winning inclusive culture and a strong commitment to community and pro bono work. FBT Gibbons supports our attorneys with structured training and ...

Pro Bono Attorney information

See Ohio salary details

$89.4K

$166.6K

$295.7K

How much do pro bono attorney jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for pro bono attorney in Ohio is $166,568.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $127,400.00 and $162,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a pro bono attorney?

Pro bono attorneys are lawyers who provide legal services for free or at a significantly reduced fee to individuals or organizations who cannot afford to pay for legal representation. Their work is often aimed at helping underserved communities and advancing social justice by ensuring that everyone has access to legal assistance, regardless of their financial situation. Pro bono work can include representing clients in court, offering legal advice, or working on community projects. Many law firms and bar associations encourage attorneys to take on pro bono cases as part of their professional responsibilities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a pro bono attorney?

To thrive as a Pro Bono Attorney, you need a law degree, admission to the bar, and a solid understanding of relevant legal areas such as family, immigration, or housing law. Familiarity with legal research tools (like Westlaw or LexisNexis), case management systems, and continuing legal education in specialized practice areas is typical. Exceptional communication, cultural sensitivity, and a strong sense of empathy set outstanding pro bono attorneys apart. These skills are crucial for effectively representing underserved clients and making a meaningful impact on access to justice.

What are some common challenges faced by pro bono attorneys, and how can they be addressed?

Pro bono attorneys often face the challenge of balancing their pro bono caseload with billable work and other professional responsibilities. Additionally, they may encounter cases outside their typical practice area, requiring extra research or mentorship. To address these challenges, many firms and legal organizations offer training, resources, and support networks. Time management and seeking guidance from experienced colleagues or pro bono coordinators can also help attorneys provide effective representation while maintaining their overall workload.

What is the difference between Pro Bono Attorney vs Public Defender?

AspectPro Bono AttorneyPublic Defender
CredentialsLaw degree, license, bar admissionLaw degree, license, bar admission
Work EnvironmentPrivate firms, nonprofit organizations, legal clinicsGovernment-funded public defender offices
Employer & IndustryLegal sector, nonprofit, private practiceGovernment, criminal defense
Primary FocusProviding free legal services to those in needDefending indigent clients in criminal cases

While both Pro Bono Attorneys and Public Defenders hold law degrees and serve clients in need, Pro Bono Attorneys typically work in private or nonprofit settings offering free legal aid, whereas Public Defenders are government employees defending criminal clients who cannot afford private counsel. The main difference lies in their employment setting and specific legal focus.

What are popular job titles related to Pro Bono Attorney jobs in Ohio?

For Pro Bono Attorney jobs in Ohio, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Pro Bono Attorney job openings in Ohio as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $166,568 per year, or $80.1 per hour.

Full-time, Temporary

Re-posted 18 days ago


Job description

The firm's Summer Program is designed to give summer associates a comprehensive view of the firm's practice while giving the firm an opportunity to evaluate the skills of the summer associates.

Recruitment of summer associates is supervised by the firm's Recruiting Committee but depends heavily upon participation of all lawyers in the firm.  In evaluating applicants, consideration is given to undergraduate and law school academic performance, extracurricular activities and leadership skills, as well as other experiences and accomplishments.


When applying, please include your resume, unofficial transcript and cover letter designating your office preferences.

These are the offices where we will be offering 2L positions for 2027 summer associate programs:

Atlanta, GA; Baltimore, MD; Boston, MA; Charleston, SC; Charlotte, NC; Chicago, IL; Columbia, SC; Dallas, TX - Uptown; Dallas, TX - Plano; Denver, CO; Ft. Lauderdale, FL; Greenville, SC; Houston, TX; Huntington, WV; Los Angeles, CA - Downtown; Los Angeles, CA - Torrance; Miami, FL; Minneapolis, MN; Nashville, TN; New York, NY; Orlando, FL; Pittsburgh, PA; Raleigh, NC; Richmond, VA; San Diego, CA; Washington DC


Summer Associates, under attorney supervision, work on current client matters, participate on practice teams, attend Associate training programs, and are paired with experienced attorneys through the Summer Associate mentor program. Additionally, Associates act as Workflow Coordinators to ensure Summer Associates have balanced workloads and receive a variety of projects.

For Associates who join us post-law school graduation, our Associate development process includes bringing new Associates onto established practice teams, a formal mentor program pairing new Associates with experienced attorneys, and robust programming developed by our Associate’s Committee designed to advance professional development of Associates across the Firm. Associates receive training on business, marketing, and a range of substantive issues, and work side-by-side with experienced colleagues.

Pro bono service and diversity and inclusion are core values here at Nelson Mullins. As you think about your career path, consider applying to learn more about our Summer Associate experience here at Nelson Mullins.