“State Farm has a long history of supporting equal justice and of accepting pro bono cases. State Farm Law Department staff are providing life changing services to low-income clients and improving the community.
2019 Distinguished Public Service Award: Allen C. Schwartz
“In his 26-years with CARPLS, Al has championed CARPLS’ staff, volunteers, and board members to do the inspiring work that has helped so many. Al never loses sight of what’s most important: advocating for our clients.”
Announcing PILI’s 2019 Award Recipients
Congratulations to Candace Moore, Kyle Palazzolo, State Farm Legal Department, and Allen C. Schwartz!
2018 Distinguished Intern Alumni Award: Adam Gross
“It’s Adam’s deep personal commitment to justice that powers his incredible work as an advocate, leader, organizer, and mentor. His contributions in police accountability, affordable housing, and justice reform are making a real difference in the lives of people across Chicago and the region.”
2018 Pro Bono Initiative Award: Katten Muchin Rosenman LLP
“Katten has been a long-standing and reliable partner of LAF, and their dedication to pro bono has increased our capacity to serve some of the most vulnerable members of our community. The breadth of their pro bono commitments is truly astounding.”
2018 Distinguished PILI Fellow Alumni Award: Reena Bajowala
“I have known Reena since she interned for us in 2003. While the work she did for us that summer was very different from the powerful pro bono litigation she handled later, her dedication to helping low income clients, her strength as a person and an attorney and her commitment to equal justice, were on display back then as they are now.”
2018 Distinguished Public Service Award: Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan
“It is no exaggeration to say that Lisa Madigan has served as a lifeline for funding for civil legal aid in Illinois.”
2017 Pro Bono Initiative Award: McDermott Will & Emery LLP
“Pro bono at McDermott represents to me a wide array of opportunities for incredible personal and professional growth and satisfaction. I have been extremely gratified and nourished by McDermott’s exemplary commitment to pro bono.”
2017 Distinguished PILI Fellow Alumni Award: Brij B. Patnaik
“Through his pro bono work, Brij demonstrates the highest ideals of our profession – service, fairness and justice. As a Jenner & Block lawyer, he epitomizes our core values of commitment to pro bono work and community service. We are privileged to call him our colleague.”
2017 Distinguished Intern Alumni Award: Susan L. DeCostanza
“Susan embodies what PILI preaches: A lifelong commitment to public service.”