Attorney Emeritus Program

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The New York State Attorney Emeritus Program (“AEP”) is designed to facilitate pro bono services by senior attorneys. During the two-year registration period, Emeritus Attorney volunteers commit to serving 60 hours of unpaid civil legal assistance under the auspices of a qualified legal service provider, bar association, or court-sponsored volunteer lawyer program. Upon electing the Emeritus status, Attorney Emeritus volunteers are connected with AEP-approved legal services organizations or court-sponsored programs in need of pro bono lawyers.

To be eligible to serve as an Attorney Emeritus, individuals must be retired or active attorneys in good standing, who are at least 55 years of age, and have practiced law for a minimum of 10 years. Attorneys can get involved with the AEP by calling 877-800-0396 or by applying with the Program through the online portal and completing an online application. Additionally, attorneys who qualify and wish to join the AEP should select “Attorney Emeritus” as their registration status on their next biennial attorney registration form.

Participants in the Attorney Emeritus Program

  • Receive training and supervision from the host organization or court-sponsored program.
  • If retired, are not subject to the $375 attorney registration fee or the mandatory CLE requirements. Any training will be provided free of charge.
  • If active, are eligible to receive up to a total of 15 CLE credit hours for their pro bono hours. 
  • Are afforded legal malpractice coverage by the sponsoring organization or are covered by the defense and indemnification provisions of Public Officers Law § 17. 
  • Upon completion of 60 pro bono hours, receive special recognition from New York State Chief Judge Rowan D. Wilson and Deputy Chief Administrative Judge for Justice Initiatives, Judge Edwina G. Richardson.

The work of Fordham Law School’s Feerick Center for Social Justice in connection with the New York State Attorney Emeritus Program is supported through a grant from the AmeriCorps VISTA Program.