As we celebrate National Pro Bono Week, we want to express our deepest gratitude to all of our pro bono attorneys. Your dedication ensures that justice is accessible to those who need it most. At Public Counsel, we know that pro bono work isn’t just about giving legal expertise—it’s about coming together to transform our communities and ensure that justice is accessible to everyone. This week, we reflect on how the passion and commitment of our volunteers make a difference in the lives of our clients and in building a better world.

Every time a pro bono attorney steps up to advocate for a client, they aren’t just addressing a legal need—they are partnering in someone’s journey toward justice and positive change.   One powerful example is Disney in-house attorney Cynthia Sadowski, who several years back volunteered to assist in finalizing the adoption of her first foster youth through Public Counsel’s Adoptions Program. This experience launched her life-long dedication to pro bono service that today has helped numerous children find permanence and healing with loving adoptive families.   

Whether it’s representing tenants facing eviction, supporting small businesses, or fighting for the rights of immigrants and asylum seekers, our pro bono attorneys bring their passion for helping others and connect with individuals and communities striving to overcome challenges and build a brighter future. If you’ve ever considered giving back through pro bono work, there’s no better time to start. The need for legal support is greater than ever, and your skills can make a tangible difference in the lives of those who need it most.

We offer a wide range of matters to fit your schedule. Whether you’re able to take on a long-term case, a short-term project, or provide ongoing expertise at one of our clinics, we work with you to find the right fit. Plus, when you take on a Public Counsel case, you are never alone. Our team provides technical expertise, guidance, and the tools you need to succeed, ensuring that both you and your client are fully supported.

This week, we are notifying our 2024 Pro Bono Award recipients of their selection, and we look forward to announcing and celebrating the winners at our awards ceremony in early December. Through the Pro Bono Awards, Public Counsel honors a select group of attorneys who have gone above and beyond in providing outstanding and impactful service to our clients. We simply could not achieve our mission without the hundreds of talented legal professionals who volunteer their time each year.

Together, through our collective efforts, we are building a stronger, more just Los Angeles. It all starts with us. Thank you for being an essential part of Public Counsel’s pro bono family.