There has been a surge in pro bono work provided by lawyers as a result of the recession, figures have suggested.

The increase stems from a combination of a greater need for pro bono work and the fact that some solicitors are ‘underemployed’.

Charity LawWorks, which links law firms with charitable projects, has already worked with 106 member firms this year, almost the same number that participated throughout the whole of last year. It ­reported a 43% rise in the amount of individual casework advice provided in the first half of 2009, compared to the same period in 2008. Its email advice service saw a 50% rise, while there was a 22% increase in community groups casework and a 10% rise in advice at ­clinics.

LawWorks chief executive Rebecca Hilsenrath said the increase was ‘a very positive tribute’ to member firms.

‘It is very clear that the need for pro bono help has never been as severe as at the moment. ­Member firms are responding to that need and choosing their priorities accordingly,’ she said.

Hilsenrath said that while many members were still very busy, the charity was seeking to find opportunities for those who were underemployed.

Law Society chief executive Des Hudson said 2009 had been ‘the year of pro bono’ for solicitors, who had stepped in to meet the public’s needs.

Magic circle firm Linklaters said it had seen a 23% increase in pro bono work in London in the last financial year, due to the number of new initiatives put in place.

LawWorks recently launched a Choices project aimed at unemployed solicitors. The Law Society is providing 100 free practising certificates for the scheme, limited to pro bono work.