Training FAQ

PBRC’s substantive training programs primarily target lawyers licensed in Maryland. Out-of-state lawyers who are interested in completing a particular training course should contact Annie Speedie (aspeedie@probonomd.org) for information on how to become special authorized to practice pro bono through an approved Maryland legal services provider, which requires submitting certain documentation and a check for $10.00 to the Maryland Court of Appeals. Please note, however, that out-of-state lawyers are automatically eligible to take trainings in the areas for which they can practice without the necessity of a Maryland license, such as immigration and veterans’ law. There are also opportunities for lawyers to research and draft articles for the People’s Law Library, which does not require a Maryland license. Depending on the training topic and space limitations, staff of legal services providers are welcome to attend certain trainings as well.

Because Maryland does not require Continuing Legal Education for lawyers practicing in the state, whether a training seminar will qualify for out-of-state credit is subject to that state’s rules and decision. The Veterans’ Benefits 101 course does qualify for the Department of Veterans’ Affairs CLE credits.

The MSBA often gives PBRC free and reduced-fee training slots for pro bono lawyers and staff attorneys of legal services programs. To see if an MSBA CLE course has free or reduced-fee slots available, click here: MSBA CLE Courses Available Through PBRC.

PBRC's trainings are free in exchange for a pro bono commitment (specific to each training). Visit our training page to see what's available.

Each training has its own required pro bono commitment. Check the training's webpage or registration form for further details.

No. We require that you make a pro bono commitment in exchange for receiving the training and/or training materials. Most of our training programs are suitable for beginners with no prior knowledge of the law, unless otherwise noted. Mentors, malpractice insurance, and case support are also provided.

Yes, most training are available to watch online anytime. You can choose your view preference on the registration form for any live training.

A webcast is a recorded training that you can view online at any time. Each webcast comes with video and a link to the training materials.

A webinar is a live training event, where you can participate online in real time and have the opportunity to ask questions of the instructors and service providers.

Yes. Each training requires a new pro bono commitment regardless of your prior pro bono work history.

No, unless your friend/family member is a client of the legal services provider program from which you are required to take a case. Otherwise, that does not fall within the definition of pro bono according to the Rules of Professional Conduct.

Not at this time, but please check our website again once you become barred. Many of the trainings we offer now are recorded and available to you via webcast whenever you are ready. We also have some trainings available to non-lawyer advocates. Visit our training page and look for titles marked with an asterisk (*).

No. Our funding is to train lawyers to do pro bono work and is geared toward legal practitioners. If you cannot complete a pro bono commitment because you are not a lawyer, we cannot provide you with training.