or other avenues. In this issue, for example, the Atlanta
Bar Association’s long-time Platinum sponsor SunTrust
summarizes some of the many community efforts in which
their employees are engaged. More and more, corporate
clients are asking their firms to tell them how the firms give
to others. Increasingly, private law firms and corporate legal
departments are partnering on pro bono projects as well.
I am fortunate to work for a law firm whose core values
include service to our communities. For two years (three
in Atlanta), every full-time U.S. lawyer at Hunton & Williams
has done some pro bono legal work. That translates into
thousands of individuals and non-profit organizations
having their legal needs met by volunteer lawyers each
year. And it is one reason why I am using this bully pulpit
to encourage more of my colleagues to get engaged. The
Atlanta Bar Association seeks to be the conduit for many
of our members to serve others. Wherever you practice or
whatever your practice area, we can help connect you with a
pro bono or public interest organization. There are volunteer
president’s message
opportunities for everyone. And judges can participate, too.
Judge Edlein handled pro bono cases when she was in
private practice. She now supports pro bono by co-chairing
the Atlanta Bar Association Pro Bono and Community Service
Committee and helping thank the many lawyers for their time
and dedication.
It is far from a secret that a very important part of my legal
career has been pro bono legal services, both providing them
directly and actively encouraging and supporting others to
do the same. I am proud of the many things I have done
in my 24 years as a lawyer, but none more so than being
engaged in and supporting pro bono legal services. It is
never too early or too late to get involved. If you don’t know
how, reach out and ask. It will enrich your life. ■
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The Official News Publication of the Atlanta Bar Association
August/September 2011
THE ATLANTA LAWYER
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