The History of Pro Bono

Published on 29 October 2026 For the first time, the history of the UK’s pro bono tradition – from ancient times to the modern day – has been laid out in a groundbreaking exhibition.

The History of Pro Bono exhibition has been created to mark the 25th anniversary of UK Pro Bono Week, which takes place from 2 to 6 November.

It traces the tradition of lawyers volunteering their time to provide free legal help over the centuries. It is based on months of research led by the chair of UK Pro Bono Week, drawing on historical records and academic scholarship, and brought together with artwork and manuscripts dating to 1300 AD alongside historical photographs.

This is the first time that this history has been curated into a visually engaging format. In addition, more than 50 law firms, charities, universities and individuals from across the UK responded to the Pro Bono Week committee’s call for submissions, contributing photos, videos and articles which have been incorporated into the exhibition.