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 Mississippi, pro bono legal services are an important aspect of ensuring access to justice for those who cannot afford legal representation. Attorneys in the state often volunteer their time and expertise through various programs, many of which are coordinated by the Mississippi Bar Association. These services are typically available to individuals who are considered indigent, meaning they have a low income and meet certain financial criteria that qualify them for free legal assistance. Legal aid, on the other hand, is provided by attorneys who are employed by nonprofit organizations. These organizations receive funding from various sources, including government grants, private donations, and sometimes client fees on a sliding scale based on the client's ability to pay. The attorneys working for legal aid organizations are compensated, albeit at a lower rate than the market average for legal services. Both pro bono services and legal aid aim to ensure that legal help is accessible to those who would otherwise be unable to afford it.