At CILEX, Pro Bono Week is a time to recognise the inspiring work of our members, advisers, and panellists who dedicate their skills and time to bring legal support to those who might otherwise go without. This year, we’re sharing the stories of several members whose pro bono contributions provide invaluable access to justice and support to underserved communities.
Victoria Herrington: A Personal Journey Inspiring Advocacy for Others
Victoria Herrington’s story is one of resilience and determination. Since 2018, Victoria has volunteered as a McKenzie Friend in family law, helping individuals navigate the complexities of private child arrangement applications and non-molestation orders to protect victims of domestic abuse. Her journey is deeply personal, as she herself faced similar challenges years ago. She recalls, “I will never forget how terrified I was attending the family court for the very first time… Ten years of being the Respondent to wholly unnecessary applications was, I later learned, a form of abuse via the legal system.”
Today, Victoria is dedicated to helping others find a way through these challenging situations. Through CILEX Foundation funding, she hopes to become fully qualified via CILEX and complete the Barristers Training Course. Alongside her work as a McKenzie Friend, she volunteers for domestic violence charities and the Citizens Advice Witness Service, giving back the support she once received. Her story exemplifies how deeply impactful pro bono work can be, especially when it’s rooted in personal experience.
Ike Efobi: Using Pro Bono to Build Community Resilience and Empowerment
For Ike Efobi, pro bono work is a calling rooted in the idea of pro bono publico—for the public good. He explains that offering legal services at no or reduced cost ensures that marginalised individuals and organisations have access to critical legal support. In his words, “Pro bono work strengthens community resilience by directly impacting the lives of those who would otherwise face obstacles in accessing justice.”
To Ike, the value of pro bono extends beyond the immediate assistance he provides. “Through pro bono work, individuals are empowered to address their legal issues, fostering positive social change and reducing inequality,” he says. By engaging in this work, legal professionals not only give back to society but also grow personally and professionally, gaining new perspectives and experiences. Ike’s dedication highlights the transformative power of pro bono work on both the community and the individual.
Michael Thomson: Advocating for Vulnerable Individuals in Employment Disputes
Michael Thomson has devoted considerable time to representing individuals in complex employment cases, helping those with limited resources navigate disputes against employers. This year alone, he has supported a person with physical disabilities and limited English in achieving a settlement and represented two individuals to navigate complex claims against several businesses.
For Michael, pro bono work offers a unique opportunity to practice advocacy, something he hopes to expand upon in the future as a CILEX Advocate or possibly as a barrister. He notes, “The pro bono work I do is all for the employee side. It allows me to work directly with individuals who otherwise wouldn’t have the resources to get legal support, guiding them toward resolutions that may be out of reach for them without such assistance.” Michael’s work exemplifies how pro bono efforts can help to level the playing field in situations where one party might otherwise be at a significant disadvantage.
Ian Hunt: Bringing Pro Bono to Local Communities Through Legal Clinics
Ian Hunt, a CILEX Fellow in private client work, has long been a champion of making high-quality legal advice available to all, regardless of financial means. For over 14 years, Ian’s firm has supported free legal clinics for organisations like hospices, Age UK groups, and the Ottery Help Scheme. “There’s great satisfaction in helping people who otherwise wouldn’t have access to advice,” Ian shares. “Giving back is vital to my work as a CILEX member, and I encourage others to find opportunities to support their communities.”
Ian’s firm also works with national charities like Cancer Research UK, Mencap, and the National Autistic Society, providing guidance to families seeking to provide for children with disabilities. His commitment to pro bono work demonstrates how a proactive, community-based approach can provide essential support for local and national causes alike.
Edward Moon: Aligning Pro Bono with Values and Community Impact
For Edward Moon, pro bono work represents both a professional commitment and a personal passion. He volunteers his legal skills not only in traditional legal aid but also in community efforts, including his support for Get Well Gamers, which supplies gaming consoles to children in hospice care. Edward explains, “Pro bono work allows me to give back in a way that aligns with my values. I’ve seen first hand how small acts can bring joy to those facing tough situations.”
Beyond his work with specific charities, Edward believes that pro bono efforts promote social equity by helping underserved communities access essential services. “This work goes beyond my role as a CILEX adviser—it’s about making a positive impact that extends to individuals, charities, and small businesses, creating a ripple effect that strengthens the community.”
Christine Howard: 500 Hours and Counting of Pro Bono Support
Christine Howard, a past recipient of the CILEX Pro Bono Award, has dedicated hundreds of hours this year alone to assisting individuals in need of legal advice. As volunteer at the RCJ Advice Bureau, Mary Ward Legal Centre, and Suffolk Law Centre, Christine’s commitment to pro bono work runs deep. Reflecting on her years of service, Christine says, “It’s time to encourage a new generation to take up this work. I hope to see fresh faces continuing this essential service.”
Christine’s legacy as a pro bono advocate illustrates the lasting impact of this work on communities and underscores the need for ongoing engagement from future generations.
Michael Coe: Championing Workers’ Rights Through Employment Law
Michael Coe, a CILEX Adviser and Employment Law Paralegal, is a dedicated proponent of accessible justice, particularly for workers facing employment issues. He explains, “Affordability should not be a barrier to justice. My pro bono work provides individuals with the chance to uphold their rights, even when they lack resources.”
Michael’s work ensures that those without the means for legal representation can still seek justice, helping them navigate cases under the Employment Rights Act 1996. His commitment to making legal support accessible is a reminder that pro bono work is an essential element in a fair and just society.
As we celebrate Pro Bono Week, these stories remind us of the critical role that pro bono work plays in ensuring access to justice for all. CILEX is proud to support and celebrate these remarkable individuals, who exemplify what it means to give back to their communities with dedication and compassion. We encourage all members to consider how they, too, can contribute their expertise to help those in need and create a lasting impact in their communities.
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