Pro bono legal services are services that are provided to a person or entity without requirement or expectation of payment to the attorney for the services. These volunteer legal services are provided by lawyers—often through state bar associations—and are usually available only to persons who are unable to pay for the services, and qualify as indigent based on their income. In contrast, legal aid services are often provided at no cost or reduced cost by attorneys who work for nonprofit entities, and the attorneys are paid a modest salary by the nonprofit entity.

In Florida, pro bono legal services are an important aspect of the legal community's commitment to ensuring access to justice for all, particularly for those who cannot afford legal representation. Attorneys in Florida are encouraged by the Florida Bar to provide pro bono services to indigent persons, and Rule 4-6.1 of the Florida Bar Rules encourages lawyers to render at least 20 hours of pro bono service or contribute financially to organizations that provide legal services to the poor. These services are typically coordinated through various programs, including legal aid organizations, bar associations, and other non-profit entities. Legal aid services in Florida are provided by non-profit organizations that receive funding from a variety of sources, including government grants, private donations, and the Interest on Trust Accounts (IOTA) program. Attorneys working for these organizations are compensated, albeit often at a lower rate than private practice attorneys, to serve clients who are eligible based on their income and other factors. Both pro bono and legal aid services aim to bridge the gap in legal services for those who might otherwise be unable to afford legal counsel.