The Power of Pro Bono

By Kimseima Lim.

Reading time: three minutes 

In celebration of International Volunteers Week 2024, Kimseima Lim explores the profound impact of pro bono work in the legal profession.

What’s the first thought that comes to mind when you hear pro bono? For me, pro bono means proving access to legal services to those who cannot afford them. Though pro bono work is often construed as a charitable endeavour initiated by law firms, it is more than this. Pro bono has a profound impact on the legal profession, it is both beneficial towards the lawyers that take part, and the community too.

Read this article on the value of giving back to the legal community: https://thestudentlawyer.com/2024/05/22/the-importance-of-giving-back/

How does it benefit lawyers?

Often pro bono work is viewed as a selfless act, it has other benefits too.

1. Firstly, pro bono work can help develop new skills and areas of expertise as it requires lawyers to think on their feet and adapt to new situations.
2. Secondly, this type of work can be a valuable experience and training moment for junior lawyers. Junior lawyers may be further exposed to getting to know a client, and actively listening to them.
3. Lastly, participating in pro bono work can help foster a sense of community amongst lawyers, as some of them can work together to address a significant issue for a client.

How does it benefit the community?

This is the main impact of pro bono work. By providing legal services to those who cannot afford them, participants can ensure that everyone has access to justice, regardless of their background or socioeconomic status. Moreover, pro bono work helps address systemic issues, especially discrimination, inequality and more. Sometimes, it may even help adolescents or other clients recognise and later assert their rights which they are entitled to do so.

Read here to find out about Baker McKenzie’s pro bono work, especially the Know Your Rights series: https://uk-graduates.bakermckenzie.com/news/why-do-pro-bono/

Hurdles in pro bono work

Though pro bono work has its benefits, it is not without its challenges. Arguably the largest obstacle being the lack of resources and funding. This makes it difficult for lawyers to provide their services. Pro bono does not generate tangible returns for a firm in comparison to commercial work. It can be time consuming, requiring lawyers to dedicate a certain amount of time to these cases.

Nevertheless, there remain many opportunities for growth in the pro bono field. For example, technology is one tool that will facilitate pro bono services. It allows for lawyers to provide their services remotely and connect to a wider range of clients. And now, many firms have recognised the importance of pro bono work in the legal profession, with these organisations planning and launching their own initiatives.

See more for pro bono opportunities and how you can get involve: https://www.thelawyerportal.com/study-law/law-work-experience/pro-bono/

So, for law students reading this, why should you take part?

Consider what your interests are and perhaps how you can dedicate a certain amount of time to participate. The impact of pro bono is profound and far-reaching. When you find yourself completing and participating in pro bono work, you might discover a passion or an interest to pursue it further. This may present itself as ignitor for your future career. It could lead you to be interested in a career in family, immigration, or employment law. These areas enable you to work closely with your client, get to know them personally and the ins and outs of their livelihoods.

Read this article to find out why aspiring lawyers should volunteer this summer: https://thestudentlawyer.com/2024/05/22/why-aspiring-lawyers-should-volunteer-this-summer/

Or for others, you may see it as personal growth and an opportunity to develop and enhance your skills even further. For some, you’ll see it as a way of giving back to your community and it can be inherently self-fulfilling.

In sum, pro bono work is a vital aspect of the legal profession. It benefits both the individuals that take part, the law firms that initiate these programmes, but mainly the community.