Pro bono clients consider themselves lucky when they can find lawyers that are willing to go the extra mile to represent them in a dignified manner that they may not have been able to afford on their own. This representation can allow them to feel hopeful, inspired, and empowered during some of the darkest days of their lives.

But, what about those attorneys? What does performing pro bono work do for them and their firms? A lot, it turns out. Here are some of the top reasons that lawyers should spend some time representing pro bono clients:

 

Building a Better Image

Conducting pro bono work certainly boosts a firm’s reputation if it can afford to do so. Sometimes, legal periodicals and associations grant recognition awards for offering free services to those who need and deserve assistance. Providing community service and support makes a firm more likely to be honored with such accolades.

 

Fulfilling their Spirit

Regardless of the size of a law firm, whether a sole proprietor or an international brand, most lawyers involved realize that helping those desperately in need of free legal advice and defense creates a sense of self-fulfillment. This overwhelming good feeling leaves attorneys re-energized and even more dedicated to the idea of practicing law to help others. These emotions allow lawyers to recommit to the purposes of their every day clients as well.

 

Trying Something New

Attorneys may get to practice and participate in an area of law that they may not have considered since they were still in school. Attempting to practice in an area that is not a lawyer’s usual focus can broaden his or her horizons and give him or her a change of pace that is refreshing and new. For example, a lawyer may partner with a legal aid clinic that requires attorneys to work on some instances. A family law attorney may work on an immigration matter, or a probate lawyer may be assigned a criminal trial. It certainly keeps them on their toes!

 

Attorneys have so much to gain from offering their assistance to those in the community that may need it. If they can afford to take the time and forfeit payment, then the experience can be rewarding for them in many other ways.