What is pro bono legal work?

Pro bono legal work refers to providing legal services voluntarily without charge to individuals or groups who cannot afford to pay for those services. This practice is rooted in the legal profession's commitment to access to justice and reflects the ethical obligation of lawyers to contribute to the community by helping those in need.

The essence of pro bono work is its voluntary nature and the aim of serving underserved populations, which aligns directly with the chosen answer.

In contrast, legal work for non-profit organizations, while important, is not indicative of pro bono work unless those organizations are assisting low-income clients without the capacity to pay. Paid legal services for low-income clients would refer to fee arrangements such as subsidized services or legal aid, which do not fall under the category of pro bono since they involve compensation. Providing legal services solely by interns lacks the comprehensive professional responsibility that pro bono work embodies, as internships usually require supervision and do not reflect the broader commitment of lawyers to serve the community at large.