Pro Bono Summer School: A Program for Law Students Takes Aim at the Justice Gap

Woods Rogers’ Jennifer Eaton authored an article in the October issue of Virginia Lawyer, highlighting the unique program that she helped to develop with the Legal Aid Society of Eastern Virginia to inspire and engage law students in pro bono work. The Pro Bono Certificate program trains law students in Virginia to begin their public service before graduation. The goal is simple: Cultivate a lifelong commitment to pro bono work.

“Roughly 20% of Americans live with an unmet legal need, which typically involves issues related to housing, public benefits, and family law matters,” Jenny wrote in the publication. “Young attorneys can help bridge the Justice Gap. Research conducted by the American Bar Association reveals that lawyers tend to contribute to pro bono more as they get older. But early exposure to pro bono service can have a measurable impact on lawyers’ pro bono contributions throughout their careers. And the cumulative impact of attorneys contributing to more pro bono service for a longer period can measurably impact the Justice Gap.”

Read more about the Pro Bono Certificate program and its impact in the October issue of Virginia Lawyer, available digitally here.