Pro Bono Practices and Opportunities in Japan

Published on 15 May 2019 This is an overview of pro bono practices and opportunities in Japan, including key practice rules, culture, obstacles to undertaking pro bono and sources of pro bono opportunities.

The Japan Federation of Bar Associations (“JFBA”) is an autonomous body governing matters relating to the guidance, liaison and supervision of all attorneys and bar associations, consisting of the 52 bar associations in Japan. Japanese attorneys are not required by law to work a minimum number of hours of pro bono work, however, there are other governmental or non-governmental organizations that provide access to justice free or at a low cost, including, the Japan Legal Support Center, the Duty Attorney Systems, legal counseling centers established by local bar associations and legal expenses insurance initiated by the JFBA.