30 August 2019

On Friday, 23 August 2019 the Centre’s CEO, Gabriela Christian-Hare, presented on pro bono alongside Carla Corradi, Legal Counsel (Research), UNSW and Alison Ryan, Supervising Senior Solicitor, Refugee Advice and Casework Service (RACS) at the Society of University Lawyers (SOUL) Eastern Region Meeting in Sydney.

Representatives from the legal departments of a range of universities including the University of Sydney, UNSW, the University of Canberra, ANU and the University of Wollongong were present.

The discussion focused on the wide variety of client groups assisted through pro bono legal work and the benefits of involvement for lawyers individually, their legal teams and their universities. Gabriela also discussed the importance of establishing a policy for involvement, referring to the Centre’s guide: Pro Bono Legal Work – A Guide for Corporate Lawyers, available on the Centre’s website.

Alison discussed how RACS has benefited from pro bono assistance, noting in particular the assistance it receives from in-house corporate lawyers and the supervision and training RACS provides to support its pro bono lawyers.

Carla discussed UNSW’s CSR work and volunteering program, and its lawyers’ involvement in the TalkLaw program, working in partnership with KWM.

The Centre was delighted to have the opportunity to discuss pro bono involvement with this group of in-house lawyers, many of whom had participated in pro bono earlier in their careers and expressed a keen desire to make pro bono opportunities available to their university legal teams.

University legal teams interested in participating in pro bono legal work are encouraged to contact the Centre to discuss opportunities and tips for establishing a pro bono practice. See the Centre website for details.