Special Projects

Global Pro Bono

In partnership with local and global leaders, the Global Pro Bono Project works to strengthen pro bono culture, policy, and practice around the world. PBI identifies impediments and implements solutions, develops resources, and promotes global pro bono service through research, consultative services, training, and thought leadership.

The globalization of law practice, the growth of emerging democracies based on the rule of law, and the heightened international consensus regarding fundamental human rights have fueled efforts to explore and establish a pro bono legal tradition in many nations. Law firms and legal departments are increasingly eager to engage in global pro bono.

Global Pro Bono Survey – In partnership with Latham & Watkins, PBI released the fourth version of its global pro bono survey. The newest version covers more than 84 jurisdictions and provides information including what access to justice or publicly funded legal aid programs exist; what unmet needs for legal representation remain; how perceptions and culture shape the domestic pro bono dialogue; and which professional conduct laws and rules form the framework for pro bono representation.

 

Global Due Diligence Manual – This hands-on guide that will help you locate, vet, and take on global pro bono opportunities. It covers clearinghouses, major NGO clients, research projects, broader engagements, managing pro bono conflicts, and how to create synergies across your organization.

The globalization of law practice, the growth of emerging democracies based on the rule of law, and the heightened international consensus regarding fundamental human rights have fueled efforts to explore and establish a pro bono legal tradition in many nations. Law firms and legal departments are increasingly eager to engage in global pro bono.

Consultative Services The PBI Global Pro Bono project provides tailored, confidential assistance to law firms and legal departments on how to structure an effective global pro bono program, develop appropriate policies and practices, and identify suitable, compelling global pro bono opportunities.

Research and Development The project conducts research and surveys to gather empirical evidence about the state of pro bono around the world, identifies existing obstacles to pro bono service – such as practice limitations, regulations, ethical prohibitions and cultural concerns, and develops best practices. The solutions that the project implements are firmly grounded in the target country’s history, culture, and existing legal aid system.

Educational Programming – Project experts participate in multinational conferences on pro bono and access to justice, conduct speaking engagements, and lead global pro bono workshops at the PBI Annual Conference.

Publications – The project periodically produces publications to update law firms and legal departments on the state of global pro bono, identify obstacles to global pro bono service, and share best practices. E-mail us to learn more about Global Pro Bono, share a success story, or obtain assistance.

PROJECT GOAL

To join efforts of law firms, organizations, and corporate legal departments to support, promote and stimulate the growth of pro bono representation globally and in international settings.