It's fair to ask why lawyers should give up the one, and sacrifice the other, to become involved in pro bono service. Let me suggest some answers. But there are also special reasons for lawyers to feel this obligation. First, society confers upon the legal profession the unique privilege to practice law, which, in turn, places upon our profession a unique responsibility to society. Second, our profession is one that encompasses special abilities.
Society needs our talents.
If we fail to contribute our talents to address crucial issues in our society, surely we will be confined to lesser roles and entitled to lesser respect. These are the primary areas that pro bono service enriches. Such service is a vital element of our professional responsibility. Access to justice is also a bedrock principle of our constitutional democracy. To be sure, there can be pro bono service that does not involve advancing equal access to justice or improving the quality of justice.