NYS Attorney Emeritus Program

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 enrolling, Attorney Emeritus volunteers are connected with AEP-approved legal services organizations or court-sponsored programs in need of pro bono lawyers.

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. 
• 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 Acting Chief Judge Anthony Cannataro and Deputy Chief Administrative Judge for Justice Initiatives, Judge Edwina G. Mendelson.