CBA Record September-October 2026

counseling a small business owner, conducting legal research, or mentoring another attorney. Meaningful work is available for lawyers in every practice area and at every stage of their careers. Some lawyers hesitate to take on pro bono work because they do not have expertise in the areas where the need is greatest. That concern is understandable, but it should not become a barrier. Our legal aid partners provide training, mentoring, and subject matter support. Time, of course, is another obstacle. Lawyers are busy, and the demands of practice are real. But our calendars reflect our priorities. If we treat pro bono service as something to under take only when every billable matter, client request, and personal obligation has been completed, we may never begin. The answer is not to wait for a surplus of time. It is to make a deliberate commitment, select an opportunity of manageable scope, and ask our firms and colleagues to help create the space necessary to fulfill it. Legal employers have an important role as well. Firms, corpo rate legal departments, government offices, and other organiza tions can build cultures in which pro bono work is encouraged,

supported, and celebrated. That means more than simply approv ing a policy. It means providing visible leadership, recognizing the value of the work, connecting lawyers with trusted commu nity partners and ensuring that pro bono service is treated as an integral part of professional development. The Chicago legal community has a remarkable tradition of answering this call. Through The Chicago Bar Association, The Chicago Bar Foundation, and our many outstanding legal aid organizations, lawyers can find opportunities that match their skills, interests and availability. During this bar year, I hope every CBA member will consider taking on a new pro bono commitment. If you already serve, invite a colleague to join you. If you supervise younger lawyers, help them identify an opportunity and give them the support to pursue it. If you have been waiting for the right time, let this be it. Our profession is at its best when we recognize that legal ability is not merely an asset we possess, but a resource we are entrusted to share. Pro bono service reminds us who we are, whom the jus tice system must serve, and what lawyers can accomplish when we lean into our collective responsibility.

CBA CLE ABROAD IN EDINBURGH, SCOTLAND

May 2-5, 2027

Enjoy Scotland's compact, hilly capital with an optional add-on to London, England May 5-8 or extend your stay in Scotland to golf. MCLE credit plus opportunities to connect with colleagues, enjoy sightseeing tours & experience Scotland’s culture.

Details and registration at www.chicagobar.org/Scotland.

CBA RECORD 7