The TrustLaw Index of Pro Bono, developed by the Thomson Reuters Foundation, offers one of the most comprehensive global overviews of how law firms contribute to access to justice through pro bono work. By surveying thousands of lawyers and dozens of firms across jurisdictions, the Index shines a light on how (and where) the legal profession is stepping up.
🔎 What the Index Shows:
- Pro bono is global. While traditionally associated with the U.S. or U.K., meaningful pro bono work is now growing across Continental Europe, Latin America, sub-Saharan Africa, Southeast Asia, and beyond.
- Participation is rising. A large majority of firms now have formal pro bono policies and encourage participation as part of their professional culture.
- Lawyers are making time. The global average is measured in the tens of hours per lawyer per year — with top firms reporting significantly higher levels of engagement.
- Focus areas are shifting. Pro bono support increasingly targets issues such as climate justice, human rights, gender equality, and refugee legal assistance – often in partnership with NGOs and grassroots organizations.
Francesco, Managing Director of Pro Publico, comments:
“The TrustLaw Index confirms what we experience daily: that pro bono is evolving from an American tradition to a global movement. Law firms are no longer just offering hours: they’re offering expertise, structure, and long-term commitment.”
At Pro Publico, we act as a bridge between law firms and NGOs. The trends reflected in the TrustLaw Index mirror the kinds of collaborations we facilitate: high-impact, cross-border partnerships that bring legal resources to where they are most urgently needed.
For firms looking to build or scale their pro bono strategies, the Index is more than a benchmarking tool. It’s a roadmap — highlighting emerging priorities, best practices, and opportunities to contribute meaningfully.
👉 Explore the TrustLaw Index of Pro Bono here: https://pbi.trust.org/