Inaugural List Celebrates Those Lawyers Providing Help To Those In Need

Seven lawyers from Irwin Mitchell have been named in the inaugural Pro Bono Recognition List, developed to acknowledge the valuable contribution made supporting those in need of help.

Published for the first time today, the Pro Bono Recognition List featured those solicitors and barristers who have devoted 25 hours or more of their time to pro bono work during the previous calendar year.

The Irwin Mitchell lawyers recognised in the list are: Beth Garrod; Joanna Uzoka; Darren Adams; Emily Wentworth; Nicola Hawkins; Elizabeth Potter and Matthew Smith.

Endorsed by its patron, The Lady Chief Justice of England & Wales, the recognition list is also supported by The Law Society, Bar Council and all major pro bono legal organisations under the aegis of the Attorney General’s Pro Bono Committee.

Following today’s launch, the recognition list will be published annually to officially recognise the contribution of lawyers at firms and organisations of all sizes in the provision of pro bono work.

Pro bono work is often undertaken by lawyers for individuals and charities who cannot pay for legal help. The provision of pro bono advice, which is separate to the legal aid system, is a vital support service for those most in need, yet lawyers involved in the delivery of pro bono advice often go unrecognised – something the new recognition list aims to change.

Clementine Burch is Pro Bono and Volunteering Programme Manager at Irwin Mitchell.

Expert Opinion

“Providing advice pro bono can be a real lifeline to those most in need and who can struggle to gain access to justice. The launch of the Pro Bono Recognition List is a really positive development and we’re delighted to see several of our lawyers feature and want to thank them for their work.

“In recognising and promoting the efforts of those involved, we hope more solicitors will be encouraged to carry out and support pro bono work in the future.” Clementine Burch