Retirement and Pro Bono

The Minnesota Emeritus Rule “Emeritus Status” allows retired lawyers age 68 and over to provide pro bono legal representation to a pro bono client when the client has been referred to the lawyer by an approved legal services provider. Attorneys must file a retirement affidavit, file an affidavit of Emeritus status, and attend or participate in no fewer than 5 credit hours of approved CLE courses in the 90 days immediately preceding the application (including On-Demand CLEs). Emeritus status lawyers’ licenses remain on CLE restricted status, and their registration fees are $0.

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* 1. Were you previously familiar with the Emeritus rule?

Yes

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* 2. Are you likely to use the Emeritus rule when you retire?

Yes

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* 3. If no, why not? Select all that apply.

I’m likely to retire before age 68

I’m uncomfortable practicing in civil legal aid

The 5- hour CLE requirement

I wouldn’t have the administrative support or technology I need to do pro bono work

The time commitment is too much

I’ve never done pro bono work before.

Other (please specify)

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* 4. What feedback do you have on the rule?

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* 5. Are there certain types of pro bono that are more appealing to you upon retirement?

Legal Clinics – by phone, in-person, or online

Transactional – ie, simple wills, debtor/creditor letters, healthcare directives

Brief Services – writing a letter, drafting documents, or extended advice on a one-time basis

Limited Scope – appearing in court for one hearing or helping with one discreet task

Full Representation – Representing a client through the course of an entire case

None of the above

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* 6. What is your age range?

Under 50

51-55

56-60

61-65

66-67

68 or Over

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* 7. Where do you primarily practice?

Twin Cities Metro

Northeast Minnesota

Northwest Minnesota

Southern Minnesota

West-Central Minnesota

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* 8. Are you currently retired?

Yes