There's an old saying that you should work for a cause, not for applause. Is there a better, more rewarding cause than representing a client pro bono? The practice of law is one of the few, maybe the only profession with pro bono service built into its framework. According to the American Bar Association, pro bono work is vital to maintaining minimum levels of basic legal need in government benefits, income, shelter, utilities, child support and physical protection. Without it, those who cannot afford legal services might never have their day in court.

A recent article by the Law Journal Editorial Board suggested that lawyers in New Jersey should be required to perform 50 hours of pro bono work each year. Such a mandate would help address access to justice issues as the economic inequities and the gap between haves and have nots widens, the article states. But should this burden to close the justice gap fall exclusively to attorneys—many of whom are already overloaded with work and family commitments? The added responsibility would take a drastic mental, physical and financial toll on those who practice law. Unfortunately, 50 hours is untenable.