Being a lawyer can be rewarding work, but many lawyers still look for additional ways to give back to their communities. From community service to pro bono to monetary donations, lawyers giving back takes many forms.
Everyone has different skill sets and available time, so it’s important to find a way to give back that works for you. If you’re looking for ideas, here’s a list of ways other lawyers are making a difference outside the office.
Pro Bono
Most lawyers looking to give back to the community start by doing pro bono work. Many firms have a system for taking on pro bono cases. If you’re looking to find pro bono opportunities on your own, most communities have a number of legal volunteer organizations that are in desperate need of lawyers’ services. In larger cities, there are likely even pro bono organizations that align with specific interests and skillsets, such as immigration, family law, or entertainment law.
Volunteering
Lawyers who give back don’t just provide free legal services. If you want to make a difference in your community, you can volunteer your time in any number of ways that don’t involve legal work. Find a cause you believe in and seek out the organizations that work in that area to figure out how you can help. From community organizations to nonprofits, there’s always someone doing valuable work who’s in need of an extra hand.
Raise Money
If you don’t have time to physically volunteer, most organizations are more than willing to receive extra funds. If an organization you’re connected to is hosting a fundraiser, help get the word out. If you’re physically active and want to combine your own fitness with benefiting the community, find a running, biking, or other race that allows you to raise money for a good cause. And any time you’re raising money, see if your employer is willing to match it, making an even greater impact.
Mentoring
Providing guidance to future generations is a great way that many lawyers are making a difference. Devote some time to mentoring junior attorneys at your firm or office or see if your law school alma mater offers mentoring opportunities for law students. On a non-legal front, your local Big Brothers Big Sisters chapter can offer opportunities for helping the youth in your community.
Non-Profits
All non-profits have boards made up of people who volunteer their time to help further their goals. Many even need an attorney to advise on basic legal matters. Whether you prefer a legal or non-legal role, serving on the board of a non-profit is a great way to make a difference in your community. If you can’t find a non-profit in your area for a cause you care about, consider starting one yourself to have an even greater impact.
Veritext, a recognized industry leader in providing the most advanced litigation and court reporting solutions and services, is a strong supporter of giving back to the community. Veritext actively supports the court reporting community, offering scholarships and continuing education to help the next generation of court reporters thrive. Through our Veritext Cares initiative, we continue to seek out new ways to give back. Contact us today to learn more about how Veritext can help you get the most out of both your legal work and your community involvement.
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