Pro bono cases might be few and far between depending on the law firm you are examining, but there is still a sense of duty and obligation when it comes to these matters. The legal fraternity is supposed to dedicate a certain amount of hours to cases that are considered in the public’s interest and when those voices need to be represented, that is when lawyers give up their own billable hours for this purpose.
So why is pro bono work considered valuable in the eyes of the legal community? Here we will outline why that is the case.
Ideal Training Platform
For those fresh lawyers just coming out of their degree to land in the field, working on a pro bono case can be a great means of accessing vital experience in a real life situation. Pro bono cases are not purely for new associates, yet they are fertile grounds for understanding the craft of law in a courtroom environment. It is clear from those case studies that have been recorded that emerging lawyers develop at a faster rate by improving their skills and learning important lessons through pro bono scenarios.
Provides Greater Reputation
Whether it is the view of your peers, other firms or clients in the market looking for a reputable name and voice to represent them, undertaking pro bono work only boosts the reputation of a lawyer. By dedicating time free of charge to those individuals who are less fortunate to provide them with due process is a major asset for organisations who are attempting to boost their own profile. It is hard to buy that kind of public relations through any other method.
Lawyers have a hard enough time in society dealing with a poor reputation of being completely on their own agenda and to boost their incomes regardless of the court results. By singing up to pro bono cases that are in the interests of the community, this is a sign of dedication to the craft and to a cause greater than themselves. That reflects well on them as professionals as well as the firm they are representing.
Actually Gives Something Back
To put it simply, lawyers are still people to. They have causes and issues that are important to them, and given their experience and skillset, there is a sense of duty to the wider public. While other cases involve corporate complications including clients of high wealth, there is little emotional investment on the part of the lawyer. Then there are pro bono situations where a client cannot afford to defend themselves against another party, even when they are the victim. This is when a professionally practicing attorney can provide a service.
