Celebrating Volunteer Lawyers: Making Justice a Reality for Everyone
Grace Hamilton
Published Jan 7, 2025
Bill Bay, the President of the American Bar Association (ABA), is encouraging lawyers to join in and is thanking all those who already do. He reminds us that lawyers have always been important in making sure our legal system treats everyone fairly, no matter how much money they have.
This celebration started in 2009, and since then, over 14,000 events have taken place across all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and even Canada. Each year, the celebration focuses on helping different groups of people, like survivors of domestic violence, veterans, homeless youth, and those affected by disasters.
Here's what's happening this year:
- In Louisiana, over 150 lawyers are offering free legal help at libraries around the state.
- North Dakota is hosting a special meeting called a Pro Bono Summit.
- In Illinois, the Chicago Bar Foundation is organizing a whole week of pro bono events. This idea from Chicago is actually what got the national celebration started.
- The Washington (D.C.) Council of Lawyers has a full month of activities planned.
Anyone looking to get involved can find opportunities in their state on the Center for Pro Bono's website.
Also, on October 24th, the ABA is holding a Giving Day. This is a day to support over 50 ABA programs that offer help through public service, shaping policies, and education.
The ABA is the world's largest group of lawyers coming together voluntarily. They work on improving justice, supporting lawyers and judges in their work, making sure law schools are up to standard, offering ongoing education for lawyers, and helping the public understand why the rule of law is so important.
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Need more legal guides? Check out the articles here.
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