Most of us know that there is an intrinsic benefit tied to service. While giving back fulfills a greater purpose in our lives, it is also tied to the heart of our profession. One of the most common ways lawyers serve those in need is through pro bono service. In spite of this though, many still go unserved with their legal needs not met.
That’s why the ABA Standing Committee on Pro Bono and Public Service launched its latest initiative, a nationwide pro bono survey.
To get an accurate portrayal of pro bono service in the United States, the ABA Standing Committee tapped all jurisdictions to participate in its project in the fall of last year. In turn, 35 states agreed to distribute the pro bono survey to its attorneys, including our very own Illinois.
The pro bono survey project will shed light on the role services play in access to justice and help the profession better understand how pro bono is viewed on a grand scale. It will also provide each state with insight into how they can improve their pro bono offerings and expand their capabilities in areas which are underserved.
To assist the ABA Standing Committee on Pro Bono and Public Service, the Illinois Supreme Court Access to Justice Commission, the Chicago Bar Foundation, the Illinois Bar Foundation, and PILI agreed to sponsor and administer the pro bono survey to Illinois attorneys. After the survey is administed, these organizations will relay the results back to the ABA committee, which plans to publish a report on the state of pro bono service in summer 2018.
The survey takes approximately 15 minutes to complete. Respondents can always pause the survey, saving their answers to be completed at a later time. The pro bono survey will be open to all attorneys in the state until March 10, 2017.
All attorneys in Illinois who complete the survey will be entered to win a $500 gift card.
On behalf of the Commission on Professionalism, we encourage each of our readers to participate. Your experience can only help our state and the profession improve access to justice for those in need.
Illinois Pro Bono Survey link: https://americanbar.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_7PQDhFv5kiEbBiJ