California pro bono law

Pro bono requirements in California.

Pro bono rules, reporting obligations, and CLE credit eligibility for California attorneys.

Overview

California Pro Bono Rules

Recommended

50 hrs/yr

Service

Voluntary

Reporting

Mandatory

CLE Credit

Rule Citation

Rule 6.1 + B&P Code § 6073.2

Recommended Hours

50 hours per year (voluntary)

Reporting

Mandatory — My State Bar Profile (online, during annual licensing fee period). New mandatory reporting as of 2026 licensing cycle per AB 2505.

CLE Credit for Pro Bono

Not available

CLE Notes

No direct pro bono-to-CLE conversion. Pro bono activities may earn MCLE credit only if tied to approved training/supervision programs through a bar association or MCLE provider.

Eligible Case Types

Persons unable to pay; pro bono and reduced-fee legal services broadly defined.

Additional Notes

Mandatory reporting is new as of 2026. Must report hours completed in 2025 by March 30, 2026. Hours reported in ranges (1-5, 6-10, 11-19, etc.).

California CLE Requirements

Total Credits

25 / 3-year cycle

Deadline

Last day of birth month (every 3 years)

Carryover

Required Categories

Legal Ethics (4h)Competence Issues (Bias) (2h)Technology (1h)Civility / Mental Health (1h)

Sources

Last verified 2026-03-01. Rules may change — verify with your state bar before relying on this information for compliance decisions.

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Also in California

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Pro bono requirements in California.

California Pro Bono Rules

California CLE Requirements

Sources

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California laws

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Practice in California? Join the Pro Bono Network.