PLMJ is a partner of Pro Bono Day and joins the Pro Bono Alliance

Pro Bono Day was held in Portugal for the first time on 8 November. This day is dedicated to best practices of cooperation between lawyers (practising alone or in law firms), clearing houses, non-profit organisations and law students. It also seeks to create synergies between stakeholders in the pro bono legal in Portugal.   This initiative is part of European Pro Bono Week, which took place this year in cities such as Paris, Madrid, Milan, Frankfurt and Brussels.  

The event was divided into three distinct parts focusing on the results of pro bono work. International Experience was the topic of the first part, which was presented by Fundación Pro Bono España. Impact on institutions and Individuals was presented by the representatives of the CDI (Center of Digital Inclusion), the More Closeness Better Life Association, and those responsible for pro bono work at two Portuguese law firms. Finally, the summary of Best Practices in the field of pro bono work was presented by Pro Bono Portugal, OIKOS and Trust Law.  

The Pro Bono Alliance was launched as part of Pro Bono Day. Its launch followed the signing of a letter of commitment, in the context of a concern shared by a number of companies and lawyers about the high demand in Portugal for pro bono legal assistance. This demand is not always matched by a sufficient or adequate response.  

In total, among lawyers, law firms and companies, 14 members have signed up for joined the challenge of creating the Pro Bono Alliance. They are Abreu, CCSL, Cuatrecasas, FCB, Maria Pisani Burnay, Miranda, Morais Cardoso e Associados, Novartis, Nuno Cerejeira Namora e Pedro Marinho Falcão e Associados, Pedro Maria Simão, PLMJ, Sérvulo & Associados, SRS and VDA. This Alliance will follow international best practices in the context of pro bono.