Young warriors

Your correspondents on pro bono work (see [2002] Gazette, 17 January, 15) treat a serious issue in a simplistic manner in their criticism of the Solicitor- General's encouragement of pro bono activities.

Trainee and young solicitors might well feel that their enthusiasm for volunteering is detrimental to the legal aid side of the profession in the light of these remarks.Young solicitors who give up their precious free time do so out of commitment to their communities.

They work alongside publicly funded services and are committed to the proper public funding of the legal aid system.Their pro bono work also does a great deal to enhance the reputation of our profession.

It helps them as individuals to develop existing skills and acquire new ones, which they can then use to benefit their firms.The Young Solicitors Group (YSG) runs an award scheme each year from April to June to recognise the excellent contribution made by young solicitor volunteers in a variety of voluntary sector projects.

The support of government ministers, for what is always a difficult option in terms of time management for busy solicitors, is something which the YSG welcomes.Younger members of the profession have taken seriously their role, which enables them to make a difference to the lives of people who use the projects and charities where they volunteer.

The YSG is proud to take a lead on pro bono in the profession.Mary-Ann Wright, chairwoman, Young Solicitors Group