To expand access to justice for indigent Filipinos, the Supreme Court (SC) En Banc has approved the Rules on Unified Legal Aid Service (ULAS Rules), requiring lawyers to provide at least 60 hours of pro bono legal aid every three years.
Effective February 3, 2025, indigent individuals who cannot afford legal services can receive free assistance, including court representation and legal counseling, with expenses covered by the SC through a ULAS Fund.
“This is a major step in bridging the justice gap. By engaging lawyers, we ensure access to justice for all, regardless of financial status,” said Associate Justice Alfredo Benjamin S. Caguioa, chairperson of the Technical Working Group behind the ULAS Rules.
The ULAS Rules were developed after a year of consultations with stakeholders, including lawyers and potential beneficiaries, with feedback from regional consultations and an online survey shaping the final version for accessibility and practicality.
Lawyers can fulfill the 60-hour requirement through legal services like representation, counseling, and document preparation, with up to 50% of the hours substituted by financial contributions to the ULAS Fund.
Meanwhile, law firms may pool up to 75% of their lawyers’ hours, leaving each lawyer to personally complete the remaining 25%.
Incentives include 15 Mandatory Continuing Legal Education (MCLE) units, tax benefits, and reduced administrative requirements.
On the other hand, non-compliance may lead to fines, delinquent status with the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP), and ineligibility for a Certificate of Good Standing.
However, certain exemptions apply, including for judiciary employees, government prosecutors, Public Attorney’s Office lawyers, senior lawyers, those with disabilities, and new Bar passers.
The ULAS Board, led by an SC justice, will oversee implementation, with its first compliance period running from 2025 to 2027, aligning with the ninth MCLE cycle.
Follow Tan Briones & Associates on LinkedIn for more legal updates and law-related articles.