The Pro Bono Program represents FIU Law's commitment to having students learn about a lawyer’s role in providing universal access to justice for groups with critical legal needs.
To graduate, you're required to complete 30 pro bono hours prior to your penultimate semester. By the end of your first semester, you should plan your pro bono activity and how to integrate it into your law school education. You are responsible for obtaining placements at approved sites or sponsored programs, or you may submit a proposal for approval for an alternate placement before commencing service.
This program does not provide legal assistance to the public. It is strictly a part of the FIU Law student academic experiential learning requirement. If you need legal assistance, email the FIU Law Clinical Program at clinics@fiu.edu.
Program Director
Phyllis Diane Kotey
Director, Externship and Pro Bono Program; Clinical Professor
305-348-5950
koteyp@fiu.edu
Intentional Justice Pro Bono Legal Project
The IJ Pro Bono Legal Project will sponsor a series of initiatives to create, promote and sustain positive change in the legal system. The project will also identify existing programs that promote these practices. Finally, the project will work to create sustained participation in intentional justice with externship and employment opportunities.
Technologies for Justice
Technologies for Justice, Inc. trains law students to run Equity in Sentencing Analysis System searches. These searches provide sentencing scoresheet data derived from the Florida Department of Corrections to indigent Florida State Prison inmates who are trying to get disparate and excessive sentences reduced.
While other cases are considered, the primary focus is on cases under F.S. § 921.1402, “Review of sentences for persons convicted of specified offenses committed while under the age of 18.” Participating students work under the supervision of a licensed attorney. There is no direct representation.
Fines and Fees Review and Modification (FFRM) Program
The FFRM will collaborate with the Florida Rights Restoration Coalition to review and seek modification of fines and fees for convicted felons who have completed their sentences.
As a program fellow, you'll work with returning citizens to remove financial barriers for persons with past felony convictions in Broward County or Miami-Dade County who meet certain qualifications.
Training is remote and tentatively scheduled at the beginning of October. Participation may require visits to the courthouse and requires a commitment of at least 30 pro bono hours. No hours will be awarded for training until completion of at least 30 pro bono hours. Acceptance is on a rolling basis with no deadlines.
Learn more about the FFRM program
Eligibility Requirements
- Enrolled in the JD program
- Completed at least one semester of law school
- Letter of interest addressed to Zoraya Ledesma at ledesmaz@fiu.edu
- Signed conflict of interest and confidentiality upon acceptance during training