How Law Firms and In-House Legal Teams Can Use Pro Bono Work to Drive Business Value
May 19, 2026
Written by Stacey Slater, Esq., President and Founder of Pro Bono Strategies LLC. Stacey is a member of Volunteer Lawyers for Justice’s Board of Trustees and has volunteered with the organization since 2021.
Stacey Slater
By partnering with Volunteer Lawyers for Justice (VLJ) over the past 25 years, VLJ’s law firm and in-house partners have achieved so much on behalf of our pro bono clients, helping to level the playing field and create equal access to justice. With only 2.8 legal aid lawyers for every 10,000 individuals experiencing poverty, pro bono help is desperately needed and VLJ is so grateful for the private bar’s assistance in meeting this need.
Many of the pro bono volunteers who partner with VLJ do so because it is the right thing to do, as we have unique skills as lawyers and can make a real difference. However, many forward-thinking law firms and in-house legal departments recognize that pro bono can also serve as a powerful tool to advance several core business objectives:
Accelerated Professional Development: Pro bono matters often allow junior lawyers to take on responsibilities they might not otherwise receive in billable work—leading client interactions, appearing in court, or managing cases from start to finish. This kind of hands-on experience builds critical substantive skills, as well as softer skills such as leadership, communication, public speaking, and decision-making. As a result, pro bono provides a high-reward training ground that enhances overall legal team capability.
Talent Retention and Recruitment: In a competitive legal market, top talent is drawn to organizations that offer purpose alongside professional growth. Pro bono programs give lawyers the opportunity to engage in meaningful, client-facing work. Law firm associates who feel their work has social impact are more likely to stay engaged and committed. For in-house teams, offering structured pro bono opportunities can differentiate the company in a crowded hiring landscape and appeal to candidates who prioritize values-driven work.
Strengthening Brand Reputation and Public Trust: Clients, investors, and the public often expect organizations to demonstrate social responsibility. A visible, well-structured pro bono program signals a commitment to community impact and ethical leadership. Law firms can leverage pro bono work in thought leadership and marketing materials, RFP responses, and client pitches. For in-house departments, aligning pro bono initiatives with corporate values reinforces the company’s broader brand narrative and strengthens stakeholder trust.
Meeting Ethical and Professional Responsibilities: The legal profession carries a long-standing expectation that lawyers contribute to improving access to justice. Many jurisdictions and bar associations encourage or set aspirational targets for pro bono hours. In New Jersey, lawyers who complete 25 hours of pro bono work with an approved provider like VLJ can claim a Madden exemption from a mandatory court-assigned pro bono matter. Working with VLJ allows lawyers to fulfill their public service obligation in a way that aligns more closely with their interests or practice area, on a time frame that works for them, and with proper mentoring and training from VLJ.
Boosting Morale and Job Satisfaction: Legal work—particularly in high-pressure environments—can be demanding and, at times, disconnected from personal values. Pro bono offers a meaningful counterbalance. Lawyers frequently report higher job satisfaction when they help underserved communities, work on causes they care about, and see the direct human impact of their efforts. This sense of purpose can reduce burnout and foster a more positive, engaged workplace culture.
Building Stronger Internal and External Relationships: Pro bono work often creates opportunities for collaboration across practice groups, between legal departments and law firms, and with legal services providers like VLJ. These relationships can deepen internal cohesion and expand external networks—both of which can have long-term strategic value.
Moreover, by partnering with VLJ, law firms and in-house departments can really scale their impact. VLJ focuses on vetting pro bono clients and supporting pro bono volunteers through mentorship and training, thereby helping law firms and in-house teams expand both the reach and effectiveness of their pro bono efforts.
I have personally handled several pro bono matters referred by VLJ. I can attest that VLJ provides excellent training and mentoring to their pro bono volunteers so they can feel comfortable trying something new that might be outside of their comfort zone. VLJ staff attorneys bring subject-matter and procedural experience, and will often co-counsel with volunteers. They also provide sample documents. They do everything they can to make the experience easy and rewarding. And, for lawyers who have limited time to volunteer, VLJ has no shortage of limited-scope matters and legal clinic opportunities.
In short, there are many reasons for law firms and in-house departments to encourage their legal team to volunteer. Pro bono can enhance talent development, strengthen brand reputation, and improve workplace culture—while fulfilling the legal profession’s core commitment to service. By integrating pro bono into their broader business strategy, law firms and in-house legal departments can create value not only for their organizations, but for the communities around them. And with VLJ celebrating its 25th anniversary this year, there is no better time to join a diverse, enthusiastic community working to ensure access to justice across New Jersey.