Pro Bono Institute’s Post

Multijurisdictional practice rules pose a significant obstacle for many in-house attorneys participating in pro bono activities. Registered in-house counsel and their colleagues serve as a vital untapped resource when considering that 92% of the civil legal needs of low-income Americans go unmet. In recent years, a number of states have re-evaluated their rules and amended them to reduce or eliminate limitations on in-house pro bono service. There are four states that are empowering in-house pro bono by not including unnecessary restrictions on registered in-house counsel providing pro bono. This includes Illinois, New York, Virginia (Part I), and Wisconsin. Learn more about multijurisdictional practice and each state’s rules. https://bit.ly/4dNAHef

🚀 Navigating AI and Legal Ethics Guidance 🚀 Ethical guidance on the role of AI in legal services is evolving and responding more and more to civil legal needs and expanding access to justice for underserved communities. As use of AI expands, state bar associations and courts are considering how to avoid ethical pitfalls while taking advantage of emerging technology.  🔍 Highlights: ▶ American Bar Association: Recent guidelines stress AI ethics, including the importance of competence, accuracy, and transparency in legal practice. ▶ State Bar Associations: States like Texas, Illinois, New York, and Minnesota are pioneering proactive AI guidelines to support pro bono efforts and address ethical concerns. ▶ State and Federal Courts: State and federal courts are cautiously navigating AI adoption, often relying on existing ethical requirements for accuracy and legal integrity. 🔗 Explore Pro Bono Institute’s latest PBEye blog post, “AI Ethics in Law: Emerging Considerations for Pro Bono Work and Access to Justice,” and join the discussion on how AI can ethically support pro bono work and improve access to justice. https://bit.ly/3X7ltcN #ArtificialIntelligence #LegalTech #Ethics #ProBono #AccessToJustice #LegalInnovation

Exciting developments in legal education and training are paving the way for a more accessible justice system: 🎓 Leading law firms are implementing AI training programs for summer associates, preparing them to leverage technology in their practice. 🚀 These programs teach prompt engineering, use of AI research tools, and responsible application of AI in legal tasks. ⚖️ By equipping new lawyers with AI skills, law firms are enabling them to enhance their pro bono practices, serving more clients and bridging the justice gap. 🤝 AI efficiency allows lawyers to focus on building client relationships and applying expertise where it's most needed. 🔍 Keys to success: hands-on training, creating communities for sharing best practices, and ongoing education as AI evolves. Check out our latest blog to find out more! https://bit.ly/4dGJnTK How is your organization preparing the next generation of lawyers to use AI for improving access to justice? What challenges and opportunities do you see? #LegalEducation #AIforJustice #NextGenLawyers #AccessToJustice

The St. Louis Pro Bono Partnership is a remarkable collaboration involving three key organizations, Citi, Bryan Cave LLP, and the local legal aid organization, Legal Services of Eastern Missouri, that are focused on providing legal support to underserved communities. The partnership is a testament to the impact that can be achieved through collaboration. From elderly clients to domestic violence victims and micro-entrepreneurs, this decade-long initiative has made a significant difference in the community. Thanks to Emily E. for helping us share your great pro bono work! Listen to our latest podcast to learn more: https://lnkd.in/eNzV-QVQ #probono #a2j

🔑 Opening Doors for Returning Citizens The Vera Institute of Justice’s Opening Doors initiative is tackling the critical issue of housing instability faced by returning citizens. By partnering with housing authorities and state legislatures, with support from pro bono lawyers, Vera is breaking down barriers and expanding access to affordable housing for those with conviction histories, which is essential for successful reintegration. Their report, supported by PBI Law Firm Pro Bono Challenge® signatory Hogan Lovells, highlights key disparities and offers recommendations for improving housing access. This collaborative effort shows the significant impact of combining resources and expertise to drive meaningful change and foster a more equitable society. Explore Pro Bono Institute’s latest PBEye blog post, “Vera Institute Opens Doors to Housing for Returning Citizens,” to learn more about their transformative efforts to ensure safe, stable, and secure housing for returning citizens. #HousingJustice #ReentrySupport #AccessToJustice #SocialImpact #ProBono

👀 ICYMI: Have you seen PBI's latest bi-monthly newsletter the Roundup? Check it out for news about our exceptional signatories to the PBI Law Firm Pro Bono Challenge® and Corporate Pro Bono Challenge®, pro bono programs, Annual Dinner news, and more! https://conta.cc/4fplL7k

Organized by the Orange County Public Law Center, Corporate Pro Bono Challenge® signatory Kimball Electronics has been actively involved in the Domestic Violence Assistance Program where they provide vital legal support, assisting clients in obtaining restraining orders to protect them from domestic violence. These efforts are crucial in empowering individuals to secure their safety and that of their loved ones. The department also collaborates with the Indiana Bar Foundation’s Indiana Legal Help walk-in clinics, both in-person and online. And beyond direct client representation, the pro bono work extends to advocacy aimed at addressing broader societal injustices. The Kimball Electronics’ legal department is leaning into a mission of leveraging their legal expertise to promote equal access to justice and alleviate barriers faced by underserved communities. Read about it in our latest blog! https://bit.ly/3LJ7Awd We spoke with Doug Hass, Kimball Electronics' Chief Legal and Compliance Officer and Secretary for our latest PBI Signatory Showcase. #probono #a2j #communityimpact

Addressing Heirs’ Property: Pro Bono Lawyers Preserve Homes and Build Wealth🏠 Have you heard of heirs’ property? It's when land is passed down without a formal will or clear title, creating challenges like eligibility hurdles for assistance programs and increased tax obligations. These issues disproportionately affect communities of color, often leading to displacement and hindering wealth creation through land ownership. Pro bono attorneys are pivotal in tackling heirs’ property challenges. Their expertise helps families navigate legal complexities, secure property rights, and preserve generational assets, fostering economic stability and wealth building. This support is crucial for safeguarding homeownership and promoting equity in marginalized communities. Explore Pro Bono Institute’s latest PBEye blog post, “Breaking the Cycle: The Power of Pro Bono in Addressing Racial Wealth Disparities Through Heirs’ Property,” to delve into why heirs’ property matters and learn more about state pro bono programs addressing heirs’ property. https://bit.ly/3WaWm8C #ProBono #HeirsProperty #RacialEquity #GenerationalWealth #Homeownership

Congratulations to Munger, Tolles & Olson LLP, the 2024 John H. Pickering Awardee! We will be celebrating their exceptional pro bono achievements at the PBI 2024 Annual Dinner, October 9, 2024. #probono #accesstojustice

🌟 Embrace the Power of Corporate Volunteerism! 🌟 Corporate volunteerism isn't just about giving back—it's a strategic business decision. Recent research underscores how these programs boost employee engagement, retention, and leadership development, aligning with modern workforce values. Check out Pro Bono Institute’s latest PBEye blog post, “Driving Impact and Engagement: The Business Case for Corporate Volunteerism” https://bit.ly/3Wodpp9 to read about research that continues to highlight the benefits of integrating volunteer programs – including skills-based volunteer programs like pro bono legal service – into your company’s strategy. #CorporateVolunteerism #ProBono #EmployeeEngagement #SocialImpact #BusinessStrategy