39. MEMBERSHIP DUES RATES ARE EXPLORED; WAIVER APPROVED FOR SIGNIFICANT PRO BONO WORK
A new committee of the Board of Governors was created in 2005/2006 to explore the pricing of the ABA's membership dues to allow greater flexibility and better meet the needs of members and the association.
The current dues increase cycle is in the first year of an increase. However, through the Pricing Strategy Advisory Group, various pilot programs are being tested, including staggering an increase over three years; allowing an extended payment plan for dues; and including a section in the price of ABA dues. These tests are allowing staff and leaders to determine pricing for specific audiences to best meet the unique needs of our members.
In addition, the Board adopted a dues waiver program meant to encourage members to perform pro bono work. Upon request, any ABA member who is no longer in the active (paid) practice of law who completes 500 hours of pro bono legal service within a calendar year may receive a dues waiver with appropriate documentation. The definition of pro bono legal services work is set forth in Model Rule 6.1. The applicant must show proof that at least 250 of the 500 hours of pro bono work involved direct representation of persons of limited means or organizations that provide services to those individuals, service on boards of organizations serving the poor, or serving as non-compensated legal staff for such organizations.
Applicants will self-certify by submitting a signed document attesting to the 500 hours and the 250 minimum hours in the services outlined immediately above. To participate in this program, contact the ABA Service Center at 1-800-285-2221 or Service@abanet.org.
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