In the run-up to National Pro Bono Week early last month, the Gazette has been busy extolling the virtues of pro bono work undertaken by large corporate law firms that are in that enviable position of having full time 'pro bono officers' (see [2005] Gazette, 2 June, 16).

However, it is firms such as mine, primarily undertaking legal aid work, that are the unsung heroes - dedicated, tireless and passionate about what we do, with limited funds and resources stretched to the hilt. A large part of a daily routine is undertaking work for our clients that in large is unpaid 'pro bono', by providing practical support, advice and information.


I write this not to take issue with the fact that the world of corporate law appears to be getting good press over its tireless efforts in pro bono work, but more so to ensure that the many legal aid lawyers who work without seeking the encouragement or acknowledgement of their peers and the legal press get credit for their continued efforts in this important area of work.


Nighat Sahi, trainee solicitor, Christian Khan, London