Our Mission
Access to Justice and Legal Services Build Strong, Vibrant Communities.
Charleston Pro Bono serves the vital legal needs of Charleston’s economically disadvantaged. We empower people by providing aid, representation, and an array of legal services that grant access to the protections and benefits of our legal system.
Community Matters
Outreach Initiatives
Several times a month, our team leads and participates in community outreach initiatives across Charleston County to expand access to legal services. Our team regularly hosts informational sessions focused on family law, estate planning, probate, victim rights, and landlord/tenant matters. These programs are conducted in collaboration with nonprofit partners throughout the County, ensuring that essential legal information reaches the individuals and communities who need it most.
Fellowship Programs
Charleston Pro Bono offers two fellowships for law students committed to public interest law. The Ackerman Fellowship is a six-week summer program where fellows assist with client intake, case preparation, and outreach in areas such as family law, landlord/tenant, estate planning, and victims’ rights. The Westbrook Fellowship is a semester-long placement for Charleston School of Law students. Fellows support staff with client services, research, and educational initiatives in fields including family law, victims’ rights, and expungements. Both programs provide hands-on training, mentorship, and experience advancing access to justice.
Law School Clinics
Charleston Pro Bono partners with the Charleston School of Law to provide hands-on clinical opportunities for students while expanding access to legal services in the community. Together, we operate three clinics: the Housing Law Clinic, the Family Law Clinic, and the Child Advocacy Clinic. Eligible students are certified to practice law under South Carolina Rule 401 and, under attorney supervision, assist with client intake, case preparation, and representation in matters impacting low-income residents of Charleston County. These clinics strengthen the pipeline of future public interest attorneys while ensuring that vulnerable clients receive the legal support they need.
