This Pro Bono Week, Paladin is thrilled to celebrate by spotlighting the inspiring efforts of three legal services organizations and three outstanding law firms making a difference through pro bono work. This year, we connected with these dedicated teams to hear firsthand about their impact, what drives them, and their advice for others looking to support their communities through pro bono service.
In the spirit of Pro Bono Week, we asked each organization and firm to share insights into their programs, the professional benefits to pro bono work, and the incredible outcomes they’ve achieved for those in need. Their stories highlight a profound commitment to justice, equality, and positive change, exemplifying the dedication of the legal profession to serving communities in meaningful ways. Read more about each of these incredible organizations below!
Houston Volunteer Lawyers Program
Brittany Krohn, Pro Bono Director at Houston Volunteer Lawyers talks about adapting to the growing trend of attorneys seeking shorter-term commitments, advice to attorneys hesitant to take on pro bono work due to time constraints or lack of experience, and more.
Read more about Houston Volunteer Lawyers’ commitment to pro bono here.
Black Connect
Angela Majette, Founder & National President, and Javiette Grant, Pro Bono Program Coordinator at Black Connect share how Paladin helps their organization maintain connections with pro bono professionals and keep them informed about their organization’s progress.
Read more about Black Connect’s impact here.
Legal Aid Services of Oklahoma
Ana Reynolds, Pro Bono Coordinator at Legal Aid Services of Oklahoma discusses a recent Fines and Fees clinic that was held over a four-week period to help participants fill out affidavits to get their court costs waived or reduced.
Read more about Legal Aid Services of Oklahoma’s dedication to serving low-income communities here.
Mayer Brown
Rachel Lamorte, Partner at Mayer Brown discusses her important work to break down barriers to voting, which has had a profound impact on thousands of people and our democracy.
Read more about how Rachel Lamorte is breaking down barriers to voting here.
Chapman and Cutler LLP
Sara Ghadiri, Pro Bono Counsel at Chapman and Cutler shares how the firm fosters a strong culture of pro bono and partners with legal aid organizations to help vulnerable individuals across the US legal system.
Read more about how Chapman and Cutler fosters a strong culture of pro bono here.
Vedder Price
Pro Bono Co-Chairs Michelle Olson and Patrick Spangler at Vedder Price talk about how the firm encourages pro bono work to enhance attorney’s professional development, as well as a significant pro bono victory resulting in a U.S. Immigration Court Judge in Chicago granting permanent asylum to their client.
Read more about how Vedder Price leverages Paladin to increase pro bono engagement here.