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Pro bono: fee-free, but not claim-free

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13 September 2024 / Clare Hughes-Williams , Sharon Glynn
Issue: 8085 / Categories: Features , Profession , Pro Bono
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Clare Hughes-Williams & Sharon Glynn on why lawyers should treat pro bono work & paid work equally
  • Unpaid work comes with the same liabilities as fee-paying work, as highlighted in a number of cases involving pro bono.
  • Sets out the steps lawyers should take when carrying out pro bono work.

Pro bono work is becoming a significant part of law firms’ practices, with some firms recording up to 80 hours per year per UK lawyer. It plays an important role in the value that law firms provide to their communities and their clients, and it is an issue that their employees also regard as important. But what is it?

The Law Society defines pro bono work as ‘legal advice or representation provided free of charge by legal professionals in the public interest. This can be to individuals, charities or community groups who cannot afford to pay for legal help and cannot get… any other… funding.’ This area has continued to evolve and grow, however, and retired partners are now being encouraged to undertake pro bono work.

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