Pro bono is a phrase derived from Latin meaning "for the good". The complete phrase is pro bono publico, "for the public good". It is used to designate legal or other professional work undertaken voluntarily and without payment, as a public service. A phrase is a group of words that functions as a single unit in the syntax of a sentence. ... Latin was the language originally spoken in the region around Rome called Latium. ... This article is about law in society. ... Public services is a term usually used to mean services provided by government to its citizens, either directly (through the public sector) or by financing private provision of services. ...
In some cases pro bono counsel may assist an individual or group on a legal case, in filing government applications or petitions or on appeal. Lawyers are recommended under ethical rules to contribute at least fifty hours of pro bono service per year.