CBA Record September-October 2026

PRO BONO WEEK 2026 – A MORE PERFECT JUSTICE SYSTEM

Don’t Forget to Report Your Pro Bono Service

organizations is just as important an investment as donating your time, as lawyers depend on these organizations to be their partners in pro bono work. Pro bono and legal aid organizations provide the necessary infrastructure to support pro bono work for area lawyers and law firms (e.g., pro bono programs with solid screening, referrals, training and support functions for volun teers). These programs also provide critical legal assistance to the most vulnerable members of our community in matters where pro bono is not a practical solution. Under the Rule, lawyers can make qualifying contributions to the CBF, which supports all major pro bono and legal aid organizations serving the Chicago area, and by contributing directly to one of these many outstanding organizations. A list of organizations that qualify under the Rule is available at www. illinoislegalaid.org/legal-information/reporting-pro-bono-and financial-contributions. Additional Questions about the Rule The CBF is also here to help you with other questions about the Rule. Contact Sarah Blair, CBF Director of Pro Bono & Training, at sblair@chicagobarfoundation.org.

This fall, as Illinois lawyers receive their annual ARDC registration statements, they will have to report their pro bono service and financial contributions for the year. It’s never too late to take on a case or make a donation, and the CBF is here to help. The Illinois Supreme Court’s pro bono reporting requirement is an annual reminder to Illinois lawyers that pro bono legal ser vice is an integral part of a lawyer’s professionalism. Rule 756(f) requires all attorneys licensed in Illinois to report, in connection with their annual ARDC registration, pro bono legal services pro vided and qualified monetary contributions made during the The CBF is your source for several helpful resources for anyone who wants to do pro bono work but is not sure where to start. Check out the CBF website for more information at chicagobar foundation.org/pro-bono, including the CBF’s Pro Bono Oppor tunities Guide (cbf.joinpaladin.com/). Qualifying Financial Contributions under the Pro Bono Reporting Rule Providing financial support for local pro bono and legal aid preceding 12 months. Pro Bono Resources

Actuarial Pension Valuations • All Illinois Public Retirement Plans • Private Plans • Military and Federal (CSRS/FERS) • Non-Qualified Plans • Survivor Benefits • QILDRO Income Stream Estimates

John C. Madden (925) 258-7100

www.msmqdros.com info@msmqdros.com

CBA RECORD 25