Maine State Bar Association

The Maine State Bar Association supports the honor, dignity and professionalism of legal workers, improves the understanding, abilities and interests of its members, and supports the community toward a fair and effective criminal justice system. The concept of assisting individuals in need has long been a vital aspect of being a lawyer in Maine. It is exemplified by the Latin phrase pro bono publico, "for the good of the public," and is grounded in a simple premise: equal access to justice for everyone. Pro bono service makes legal representation and support accessible to individuals who are unable to afford quality legal services. The Maine State Bar Association and its service division, the Maine Justice Foundation, develop opportunities for Maine lawyers to volunteer pro bono legal support, and infuse in its members a sense of responsibility to the legal profession and to the residents of all Maine communities. Generally, Maine lawyers have ranked near the top of the country in volunteer legal services for low income individuals.  Maine Justice Foundation is devoted entirely to law-related charitable work.