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 Illinois, 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 Illinois often provide pro bono services through various programs and initiatives, sometimes coordinated by the Illinois State Bar Association or local bar associations. These services are typically available to individuals who are considered indigent and unable to pay for legal services, with eligibility often determined by income guidelines. Legal aid, on the other hand, is provided by attorneys who are employed by nonprofit organizations dedicated to offering legal services at no or reduced cost to low-income individuals. These attorneys receive a salary from the nonprofit organizations they work for, which is often funded through grants, donations, and government support. Both pro bono and legal aid services aim to bridge the gap in legal representation and ensure that underprivileged communities have access to legal assistance.