Pro bono news around the world
A regular feed of pro bono stories in the media and updates from across the global pro bono sector.
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DC judges urge lawyers to take on pro bono cases amid shortage
Judges in Washington, D.C. are sounding the alarm over a massive shortage of lawyers in non-criminal cases. The disparity is particularly stark in housing court, where roughly 85% of tenants facing eviction have no legal representation, while approximately 95% of landlords have attorneys.
Opinion: How Pro Bono Lawyers Can Assist in the Upcoming Midterms
Pro bono attorneys are a vital resource in protecting the voting rights of those in underrepresented and marginalized communities. They can play a crucial role in safeguarding voter access, protecting election officials from harassment, staffing nonpartisan hotlines, and preserving election integrity.
Law firm's 'Low Bono' legal help aids Florida nonprofits
Asghar Syed is more familiar with nonprofits and their struggles than most Jacksonville attorneys.
Legal pro bono participation drops in MD despite high need
The percentage of attorneys offering pro bono legal work continues to shrink in Maryland, though volunteer organizations point to high need.
The international legal profession speaks with one voice for the protection of international justice and the integrity of international law
The International Bar Association (IBA) and partner organisations representing the legal profession around the world have issued a joint statement reaffirming their collective commitment to the rule of law and the independence of the judiciary, as well as the protection of international justice.
ABA 2026 Celebration of Pro Bono to focus on “Serving Justice. Strengthening Democracy”
Lawyers and law firms across the country will participate in volunteer events to help people with their legal issues Oct. 25-31 as part of the National Celebration of Pro Bono. This year’s theme is "Serving Justice. Strengthening Democracy."
Pro bono lawyer Zar Li Aye receives 2026 IBA Award for Outstanding Contribution to Human Rights
Zar Li Aye, a lawyer and human rights defender from Myanmar’s Indigenous Chin community, has been awarded the 2026 IBA Award for Outstanding Contribution by a Legal Practitioner to Human Rights. Since the 2021 military coup in Myanmar, Ms Aye has provided pro bono representation in more than 3,000 cases. Her work has contributed to the release of more than 500 people.
What PILnet’s Data Can Tell Us About Nonprofit Legal Needs in 2026
In this piece, Ana de la Cruz Cubeiro, PILnet’s Senior Legal Officer for the Global Clearinghouse, uses PILnet’s data to analyze global trends in the legal needs of nonprofits, civil society organisations, and other groups working for the public good.