Since "comment spam proofing" this blog I haven't gotten around to troubleshooting the comment feature so that non-spammers can post comments. One of these days ...
In the meantime, thanks to David Giacalone for not being deterred and sending me an e-mail noting that the NY pro bono proposal under consideration would also let lawyers get pro bono credit for the "delivery of legal services at a substantially reduced fee to persons of limited means." "Substantially reduced" is not defined.
I make no claim to understanding all the ins and outs of the situation, but this provision doesn't seem as bad as the rest. If there are people who can pay something for legal services, but not the going rate, then is it appropriate for them to get a free ride_ Maybe the credit the lawyer gets should be pro-rated in such a situation_