National Pro Bono Week feels especially meaningful this year. In my first few months as Public Counsel’s Director of Pro Bono, I have been inspired by the incredible stories of our volunteers and the impact they are having on the lives of our clients. I am grateful to be part of a community so deeply committed to expanding access to justice.
My own pro bono journey began in 2011, when I volunteered with Public Counsel’s CARES Program as a law firm summer associate. That experience showed me how much of a difference even a few hours of service could make and inspired me to continue volunteering, take on individual cases, and support impact litigation. Fifteen years later, it feels particularly special to be back where it all began, working alongside the advocates, volunteers, and partners who make this work possible.
Afterall, pro bono is part of Public Counsel’s DNA. Our partnerships with volunteer attorneys, law students, paralegals, and other legal professionals amplify our impact. Each year, thousands of volunteers contribute their time and expertise, supporting major litigation victories and individual successes that make a lasting difference in our clients’ lives.
At a time when the rule of law and the strength of our democracy are being tested daily, our pro bono partnerships matter even more. From protecting the rights of immigrant families and advocating for LGBTQ+ communities to defending the rights of tenants, veterans, and children, we are making a difference together.
As we celebrate National Pro Bono Week, I am proud to recognize Public Counsel’s 2026 Pro Bono Honorees. Representing a range of our core focus areas, this year’s recipients reflect the breadth of Public Counsel’s work and the extraordinary dedication of our volunteers. Each has contributed their time, expertise, and compassion to strengthen our work and support the communities we serve.
We look forward to celebrating our honorees in early 2027. In the meantime, please join me in congratulating this year’s recipients:
- Arturo Nava, Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman LLP – Honored for his outstanding advocacy for children with disabilities.
- O’Melveny & Myers LLP – Honored for their partnership in litigating LA Forward Institute v. City of Los Angeles.
- Ali Mojibi and Patrick Nutter, Covington & Burling LLP – Honored for their partnership on complex unlawful detainer appellate litigation.
- Hogan Lovells Cadwalader – Honored for their partnership in Ocana v. Renew Financial.
- Steptoe LLP – Honored for their partnership in litigating Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority v. Trump
- Sirena Castillo, Manatt, Phelps & Phillips, LLP – Honored for her longstanding commitment to pro bono immigration representation.
- Kristen Johnson, NBCUniversal and Katrina Forsyth, BlackLine Systems, Inc. – Honored for their outstanding service on Public Counsel’s Leadership Council and their commitment to strengthening pro bono partnerships and community engagement.
To our honorees and every member of our pro bono community, thank you for the generosity, dedication, and care you bring to this work. It is a privilege to work alongside you, and I look forward to all we will accomplish together.
