Editor's Note: Ms. JD's annual conference, Avenues to Advancement, was held November 20-21 in Chicago. These are notes from the "Making the Most of Your Pro Bono Experience" panel. 

Taking a pro bono case can be a great way to give back and learn valuable skills at the same time.  Here are some tips from the panelists on finding the right pro bono matter for you and how to balance good pro bono work with an already busy work schedule. 

How do I find the right pro bono opportunity? 

First and foremost, follow your heart. Pursue the kind of pro bono work you find rewarding. You can often locate organizations that need legal assistance in your own community, neighborhood, or religious institution. If your firm has a Pro Bono Counsel, discuss both your professional and personal interests with the Counsel who will assist you in finding an opportunity.  

How do I balance good pro bono work with a busy schedule?

Be upfront about your availability. If you are unsure about the time you are able to commit, request projects that have flexible deadlines or that do not require an ongoing commitment. Look for or request "bite-sized" pro bono projects--those with a brief and discernable amount of required time. 

Some examples of short term or bite-sized pro bono opportunities:

• Make a one-time court appearance
• Serve at a help-desk
• Write an amicus brief
• Teach a community education program
• Write legal alerts or F.A.Q. documents on new law

The need for pro bono legal services is overwhelming. Even a small amount of your time can be extremely helpful to a nonprofit organization or pro se litigant.

Panelists

Moderator:  Julie LaEace, Pro Bono Coordinator, Kirkland & Ellis

Anne Geraghty, Pro Bono Counsel, DLA Piper

Lindsay Harrison, Associate, Jenner & Block

Susan Kaplan, Executive Director, Community Economic Development Law Project

Kelly Tautges, Director of Pro Bono, the Chicago Bar Foundation 

Wendy Netter Epstein, Associate, Kirkland & Ellis