(a) Definition. As used in this Rule, “pro bono attorney” means an attorney who is authorized by Rule 19-215 or Rule 19-605 (a)(2) to represent clients, without compensation other than reimbursement of reasonable and necessary expenses, and whose practice is limited to providing such representation. “Pro bono attorney” does not include (1) an active member of the Maryland Bar in good standing or (2) an attorney whose certificate of authorization to practice under Rule 19-215 permits the attorney to receive compensation for the practice of law under that Rule.

Cross reference: For the professional responsibility of an active member of the Maryland Bar to render pro bono publico legal service, see Rule 19-306.1 (6.1) (Pro Bono Publico Service) of the Maryland Attorneys' Rules of Professional Conduct.

(b) Authorization to Practice as a Pro Bono Attorney. To practice as a pro bono attorney, an out-of-state attorney shall comply with Rule 19-215 and a retired/inactive member of the Maryland Bar shall comply with Rule 19-605 (a)(2).

(c) Recovery of Attorneys' Fees. If the substantive law governing a matter in which a pro bono attorney is providing representation permits the recovery of attorneys' fees, the pro bono attorney may seek attorneys' fees in accordance with the Rules in Title 2, Chapter 700 or Rule 3-741 but shall remit to the legal services or pro bono publico program that referred the matter to the attorney all attorneys' fees that are recovered.

(d) Reports. Upon request by the Administrative Office of the Courts, a pro bono attorney shall timely file an IOLTA Compliance Report in accordance with Rule 19-409 and a Pro Bono Legal Service Report in accordance with Rule 19-503.

Source: This Rule is derived from former Rule 16-904 (2016).