William C. Silverman of Proskauer Rose LLP has a unique opportunity in law as the firm’s partner responsible for leading Proskauer’s global pro bono efforts, which provide assistance to individual clients and nonprofit organizations in litigation as well as transactional matters. He focuses on identifying and securing pro bono opportunities and partnerships for Proskauer lawyers and ensuring widespread participation in these projects. In observance of National Pro Bono Week, we caught up with Silverman to learn why he is so passionate about his work.

 

What is your role in supporting Pro Bono efforts at your firm?

Proskauer is one of the few firms with a full-time pro bono partner. In that role, I oversee the Firm’s global pro bono efforts.

Why is this work important in law?

There is a tremendous unmet need for legal services in our country among people of limited means. Pro bono work is not only important but is essential to ensure equal access to justice and to be a voice for change.

What’s the case you are most proud of?

I successfully represented a victim of human trafficking in civil litigation against her traffickers. The defendants kidnapped her from overseas, forced her to work without pay as a domestic servant and, in doing so, physically and psychologically tortured her. After litigating the case for years, we secured a settlement and now she is doing really well. Given how much she overcame, our client is a truly inspirational person and a constant reminder of how impactful pro bono work can be.

What advice would you give to an attorney who is looking to champion pro bono efforts at their firm?

For the individual interested in taking on a pro bono matter, find something you are passionate about and seek out a suitable opportunity. There are many nonprofit organizations waiting to pair volunteer attorneys with clients in need. In the demanding challenges of a big firm, it is easy to lose sight of the world around you. Don’t let that happen. Remember the great power you have to make a real difference in people’s lives and how professionally satisfying that is. For the individual interested in championing pro bono work within his or her firm, emphasize the responsibility we have as lawyers to give back, and explain the great benefits for the firm: among other things, pro bono work will raise morale, enhance training, boost recruitment, and help build a firm’s reputation for excellence. Many institutional clients not only appreciate pro bono work but actually expect it from their law firms. In fact, Proskauer frequently partners with clients on public service projects and helps them develop their own pro bono programs.

Why did Proskauer decide to have a partner run its pro bono program full time?

Public service has long been a part of Proskauer’s culture and two years ago the firm decided to elevate its pro bono program and expand its impact. The firm has given me — and the entire pro bono program — a real seat at the table. I never imagined devoting myself to pro bono work full-time, but I can tell you without exaggeration that I appreciate this opportunity every day.

Keep up with all of Proskauer Rose’s pro bono work by following their blog, Proskauer Rose for Good.