Many legal departments are interested in global pro bono, but fewer have global programs due to real and perceived challenges. The PBEye knows that one of the biggest challenges is a lack of information about opportunities and regulations in different countries. To help in-house attorneys leap this hurdle,  DLA Piper LLP*†recently published the England and Wales In-House Counsel Pro Bono Guide, which provides in-house lawyers with tools and information to establish or expand a pro bono program in those jurisdictions. 

The guide offers insight into dealing with common obstacles such as indemnity insurance, cost agreements, and identifying the most appropriate projects. To help legal departments avoid these complications, DLA Piper lists partnering opportunities through which legal departments can join established pro bono projects. For departments interested in starting a program, the guide includes a sample pro bono policy that departments can modify to reflect their needs and goals.

We are excited to see this new global pro bono resource for legal departments. And, interested departments (and law firms) can learn more about pro bono in 42 jurisdictions by reviewing “A Survey of Pro Bono Practices and Opportunities in Selected Jurisdictions,” which was prepared by Latham & Watkins LLP*† for PBI. As always, PBI’s Global Pro Bono Project is another resource that offers consultative services, research, publications and more.

* denotes a Signatory to the Law Firm Pro Bono Challenge^®
† denotes a Member of the Law Firm Pro Bono Project