CC backs pro bono protocol

CITY FIRST: 23 events already set up as programme for National Pro Bono Week is unveiled

City giant Clifford Chance has become the first firm to sign up to the Solicitors Pro Bono Group (SPBG) pro bono protocol.

The protocol, which was launched at the SPBG annual conference in March, was developed by the SPBG in conjunction with the Bar Pro Bono Unit.

It is intended to act as a 'quality mark' for firms carrying out pro bono work, and it sets out the principles and best practice for such work.

Michael Smyth, head of public policy practice at Clifford Chance and the partner in charge of pro bono, signed the protocol at the firm's office on 1 May.

He said: 'The protocol is very helpful because it articulates the principles that every firm should adhere to when carrying out pro bono legal work.'

He added that it emphasised the importance of quality control in pro bono work.

'The protocol emphasises the aims and principles of pro bono work, and does not commit firms to a set number of minimum hours,' he said.

'It is a very sensible and modest document, and should allay the misplaced fears that some lawyers have.'

Other organisations which have signed up to the protocol include the Law Centres Federation, the National Association of Citizens Advice Bureaux and the College of Law.

Graham Bucknall, the SPBG's project manager, said more law firms should sign up.

'The protocol is an affirmation of the importance of pro bono work to law firms, and it recognises that legal advice given pro bono should be of the same standard and quality as that received by paying clients.'

Meanwhile, the preliminary programme for the second annual National Pro Bono Week was unveiled this week, with 23 events already arranged around England and Wales, from Southampton to Darlington.

It is organised jointly by the Law Society, Bar Council and Institute of Legal Executives.

Many of the events aim to put solicitors, barristers and legal executives in touch with voluntary groups in need of assistance.

For details on pro bono week, contact co-ordinator Claire McKendrick, tel: 020 7320 5936.

LINKS: www.probonogroup.org.uk

Victoria MacCallum