Pro bono growth among studentsLaw schools and their students are now far more likely to be involved in pro bono work than they were five years ago, research has revealed.The research, conducted as part of an academic project by Sara Brown, associated with Hampshire law firm Daltons, revealed that students at 30 of the 80 schools in England and Wales are currently carrying out pro bono work, and that 13 more institutions are planning to introduce pro bono work over the next year.A wide range of pro bono work is undertaken: 15 of the schools operate internal schemes, some of which are called clinics.

In 1994, only eight such clinics existed.Sixteen law schools carry out pro bono work in conjunction with voluntary organisations such as Citizens Advice Bureaux, welfare and employment agencies, and community legal centres.

Westminster University has the only overseas pro bono activity; it is assisting on the legal appeals of death row prisoners in the US.Sue Bucknall, director of the Solicitors Pro Bono Group (SPBG), said: 'The students benefit in knowledge and skills.

This research shows the very real benefit to those in need of free legal advice and assistance.'Jeremy Fleming