Pro Bono

Our pro bono initiative leverages our lawyers’ interests, passions, and expertise to help individuals, small business owners, and nonprofit organizations that could not otherwise afford legal assistance.

Propelled by the most pressing global crises and the Goodwin innovative spirit, our pro bono initiative champions the legal rights of those in need. Our lawyers team up to help individuals navigate the criminal justice and immigration systems, secure safe housing, obtain identity-affirming name changes through the civil court process, access reproductive rights, and attain public and veterans’ benefits. This dedication to advancing equity extends to advising low-income small business owners operating in historically excluded and discriminated communities through our Neighborhood Business Initiative, and counseling nonprofits so they can advance missions relating to a wide range of social issues including voting rights, racial justice, education, healthcare, peace building and democracy, and the environment. And the work is ever-evolving and expanding.

We have made both a local and a global impact with numerous influential moments, including forming the One Fund to assist Boston Marathon bombing victims, helping Massachusetts become the first US state to recognize marriage for same-sex couples, and successfully arguing a seminal immigration case before the US Supreme Court.

Through our passionate commitment and hard work, we are well-prepared to provide pro bono legal services that can make a real and lasting impact.

Click on the photos below to learn more about Goodwin’s pro bono work.

By the Numbers

1,000+
pro bono clients served every year
100%
of approved pro bono hours count toward bonus eligibility
360+
in-house lawyer partnerships from more than 60 companies

What Our Lawyers Have to Say About Pro Bono

I have found that Goodwin’s commitment to pro bono is incredibly deep-rooted. As a lateral, pro bono work has been a great way to serve the community through well-supported, meaningful opportunities, while also collaborating with, and getting to know, other lawyers in the office.
Lateral Counsel
As a corporate lawyer, it is easy to say — and believe — that my skill set doesn’t lend itself well to pro bono work. This could not be further from the truth; we just need to be creative and open to opportunities where we can help.
Partner
I worked on very interesting pro bono matters (a trademark office action and an eviction case) that allowed me to practice skills and gain experience in other areas of the law, which I hope to apply to my pay-for-service work. I thought it was an excellent opportunity, and I think that anyone not participating in pro bono is missing out.
Summer Associate

Pro Bono Recognition Highlights

Beacon of Justice Award for Goodwin’s commitment to pro bono legal services addressing systemic racial injustice

In recognition of the firm’s institutional commitment to pro bono work and the dedication of our lawyers and staff

Awarded Pro Bono Publico Awards for outstanding service to The Legal Aid Society and its clients

Honored a Goodwin team for their work providing pro bono legal services to small businesses applying for loans through the CARES Act’s Paycheck Protection Program

Get in Touch

To learn more about our pro bono services or for inquiries, please contact probono@goodwinlaw.com.