In recognition of this year’s National Celebration of Pro Bono (October 20-26, 2024), Lawyers for Good Government (L4GG), a leading nonprofit mobilizing pro bono legal support for human rights programs, is proud to present its 2024 Pro Bono Awards to four exceptional partners. This year’s honorees exemplify the power of pro bono work to create systemic change and advance justice:
“Each of these awardees has played an instrumental role in helping L4GG fulfill our mission of providing high-impact legal assistance where it is needed most. These partners have demonstrated outstanding dedication to equal justice, advancing environmental, human rights, and racial justice initiatives through tireless pro bono efforts.”
Wilson Sonsini: Climate Change, TPS, and Racial Justice Advocacy
Wilson Sonsini’s work with L4GG has been pivotal in advancing the Climate Change and Environmental Justice (CCEJ) program. Their expertise in clean energy tax credits, including the transformative “Direct Pay” credit under the Inflation Reduction Act, has enabled under-resourced communities to initiate over 200 clean energy projects across the U.S. through their work with L4GG. The firm has also provided invaluable pro bono services to vulnerable individuals seeking Temporary Protected Status (TPS) through L4GG’s TPS for Ukraine Project, and conducted state-level policy research through L4GG’s Lawyers for Racial Justice program.
“Wilson Sonsini’s efforts have unlocked millions in funding for underserved communities,” said Jillian Blanchard, Director of Climate Change and Environmental Justice at L4GG. “Their partnership embodies the intersection of equity and sustainability.”
Read more about L4GG’s partnership with Wilson Sonsini here.
DLA Piper: Championing Children’s Rights and Immigration
DLA Piper has been a steadfast supporter of children’s rights, collaborating with L4GG to address corporal punishment practices that disproportionately impact children of color and students with disabilities. Their research with L4GG has informed key legislative efforts, including the Protecting Our Students in Schools Act, the MERCY Act, and the End School Pushouts Act. DLA Piper’s contributions also extend to immigration work. Through L4GG’s Temporary Protected Status (TPS) programs, they helped vulnerable individuals fleeing conflict in Ukraine achieve legal stability in the United States.
“DLA Piper’s work continues to shape policies that make schools safer and more supportive, and help vulnerable populations to work and remain in the U.S. without fear of deportation,” said Khadijah Silver, L4GG’s Supervising Attorney for Civil Rights.
Nelson Mullins: Supporting Climate Resilience and Reproductive Rights
Nelson Mullins has been deeply involved in L4GG’s climate, racial justice, and reproductive rights initiatives. Through their work with L4GG’s Decarbonization and Climate Resilience Funding Clinic (renamed to the Green and Equitable Communities Clinic as of Nov 2024), they have helped disadvantaged communities secure federal funding for sustainability projects. Moreover, they conducted research and a comprehensive legislative review with L4GG on issues including healthcare access, police in schools, agricultural child labor, voting rights, and public school policy, helping activists and policymakers influence positive change. The firm has also supported reproductive rights through L4GG’s Reproductive Health Legal Assistance Project (RHLAP), providing doctors with up-to-date legal guidance in navigating restrictive healthcare laws.
“Nelson Mullins has been an indispensable partner, lending their legal expertise across numerous critical projects,” said Worsek.
Read more about L4GG’s partnership with Nelson Mullins here.
Yale Law School’s Immigrant Justice Project: Empowering Asylum Seekers
Yale Law School’s Immigrant Justice Project has partnered with L4GG’s Project Corazon to support asylum seekers at the U.S.-Mexico border for two spring breaks in a row. Yale law students have conducted know-your-rights sessions, assisted with case intake, and advocated for humane immigration policies. Their hands-on work has directly benefited asylum seekers in shelters and detention centers and has contributed to the successful reunification of families.
“The dedication shown by the Yale law students has been inspiring,” said Jessica Riley, Supervising Attorney for Project Corazon. “Their efforts exemplify the impact that compassionate, pro bono legal support can have on vulnerable communities.”
Read more about L4GG’s partnership with Yale Law School’s IJP here.
A Commitment to Equal Justice and Human Rights
Lawyers for Good Government is honored to celebrate the achievements of Wilson Sonsini, DLA Piper, Nelson Mullins, and Yale Law School’s Immigrant Justice Project. Their collective efforts demonstrate the transformative power of pro bono work in addressing urgent challenges and advancing systemic change.