Browne Jacobson launches new pro bono strategy

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UK and Ireland law firm Browne Jacobson LLP has announced a new pro bono strategy, in partnership with LawWorks, as part of the firm’s “active commitment to pro bono work”.

The firm signed up to LawWorks’ not-for-profit programme, which supports small not-for-profit organisations that require legal advice but can’t afford it. Although Browne Jacobson has “always had a great culture of pro bono activities”, it found that “a lot of this work previously came from ad hoc approaches to individuals or from personal attachments”, explained Beth Dowson, legal director in the corporate tax team who sits on the firm’s pro bono steering group.

As such, it’s hoped that the new “dedicated” strategy and the “access to voluntary opportunities via LawWorks” will ensure that the firm’s pro bono activities are targeted, measurable and align with its practice areas and core values.

This new initiative also expands the firm’s current community action programme, which raises money every year for each office’s local charity partner – the funds raised are then matched by partners. Plus, it encompasses the Browne Jacobson Charity Trust, which awards £25,000 in grants annually to a range of small community projects and a partnership with the National Literacy Trust.

LawWorks, which is the largest solicitors’ pro bono group in England and Wales, has a membership network of more than 150 law firms and in-house legal teams and is pleased to welcome Browne Jacobson into the mix.

Richard Medd, managing partner, said: “I’m thrilled that we’ve joined forces with LawWorks as part of our active commitment to pro bono work – a key strand of our community action plan – and together we can make a genuine difference in the lives of those who might not otherwise have access to legal services. I’m excited to see the real impact we can make in the communities we serve.”

Looking to the future, Dowson explained that the firm “will continue to seek opportunities to maximise our expertise and contribution by exploring partnerships with other organisations, including clients, on supporting worthy causes and expanding our pro bono work to the wide array of talent in our firm”.

LawWorks’ Chief Executive Rebecca Wilkinson said: “Each year, pro bono lawyers help thousands of people and organisations across the UK in need of crucial legal advice, giving meaningful support to communities and having a real impact on individuals’ lives.”