Legal Services of Greater Miami celebrates its pro bono volunteers
The DLA Piper legal team accepting the 2024 Equal Justice Pro Bono Large Firm Award at the Legal Services of Greater Miami’s annual Pro Bono Celebration. “Without our pro bono volunteers, it would be extremely difficult for us to meet the growing demand of clients seeking legal assistance,” said Legal Services CEO Monica Vigues-Pitan. “Their constant support fosters a sense of collaboration toward our common goal of creating a more equitable society.”
Legal Services of Greater Miami hosted its annual Pro Bono Celebration October 29, recognizing the contributions of legal professionals who volunteer their time and expertise to ensure access to justice for all.
More than 100 attendees paid tribute to the dedication of more than 400 pro bono volunteers who advocated for equal justice over the past year.
“Without our pro bono volunteers, it would be extremely difficult for us to meet the growing demand of clients seeking legal assistance,” said Legal Services CEO Monica Vigues-Pitan. “Their constant support fosters a sense of collaboration toward our common goal of creating a more equitable society.”
The evening’s keynote speaker was Supreme Court Justice John D. Couriel, who offered insights into the role that pro bono has played in history and its importance in maintaining the integrity of the legal system, emphasizing that such efforts are essential for fostering a fair and just society.
Gladys Reed of event sponsor Ocean Bank delivered the welcome. Reed was recently appointed to the Legal Services Leaders Council.
The program also featured remarks from Karen Lapekas, the newly elected president of the Legal Services board of directors, highlighting the impact of pro bono work on the local community. Pro Bono Director Carolina de Diego and board treasurer Arya Attari Li presented the awards. Recipients included:
- Large Firm Award: DLA Piper LLP (US)
- Corporate Partner Award: Assurant, Inc.
- Visionary Leader Award: Michael Bruno of McDermott Will & Emery
- Impact Award: Hahn Loeser & Parks
- Tax Clinic Award: Jose Baron
- Solo/Small Firm Award: Jordan W. Jacob
Pro Bono Champion Award:
- Holland & Knight
- Buchanon Ingersoll & Rooney
- Association of Corporate Counsel South Florida
- Attorney Monica Cunill
“It’s been a pleasure building relationships with both firms and individuals in our community who prioritize pro bono and creating opportunities for valuable engagement that leads to increased reach,” De Diego said.
For firms or individuals interested in exploring pro bono opportunities and contributing to this important cause, contact [email protected].
To view photos from the celebration, visit www.legalservicesmiami.org/event-photos/pro-bono-celebration.
