The launch of this report coincides with European Pro Bono Week 2024 – a celebration of volunteer lawyers across Europe. Organised by PILnet, European law firms and pro bono organisations, the week includes events across Europe’s major cities, including Dublin.

ALG’s Pro Bono Impact Report 2023 highlights the work carried out by ALG lawyers and the impact it has on the clients it supports. Throughout the report there is personal testimony from pro bono clients on how ALG lawyers have, for example:

• supported those fleeing war and persecution
• reunited separated minors from their families
• advocated for those in need of social housing
• conducted legal research advancing the rule of law
• supported organisations in civil society and social enterprise

The report details that ALG undertook over 340 pro bono matters in 2023 with lawyers providing over 14,100 hours of free legal advice. This equates to an average of 33 hours for each lawyer in ALG in 2023 – exceeding ALG’s commitment to 25 hours per lawyer under the Pro Bono Pledge Ireland.

Commenting on the launch of the ALG Pro Bono Impact Report, David Widger, managing partner at ALG, said: “Pro bono is a key part of our social commitment to being a responsible business.

“Through the support provided by our Pro Bono practice and hundreds of our lawyers, we do fantastic work for people in our society who need it most. I’m extremely proud of the work we do and the impact it has on those who we support. Our new Impact Report not only brings this great work to light, but it also recognises the important role of civil society and those who use their time to bring solutions to complex social issues.”

ALG head of pro bono, Eithne Lynch, added: “Our new Impact Report highlights how accessible, timely and professional legal services can make a real impact on the most vulnerable in our society.

“This has been achieved through sustained partnerships and a commitment to using our legal skills to address systemic social issues. I’d like to thank our pro bono clients, our partners and everyone who has contributed to this work. We greatly appreciate your time, dedication, and expertise.”