At PILI, we believe equal access to justice is a fundamental right and that serving those in need through public interest law and pro bono service is key to ensuring that right. Our goal is a more accessible justice system for all. As we look to an uncertain future and consider the challenges that lie ahead of us, I wanted to share some examples of how PILI’s work in 2024 has set the stage for us to stand for justice in 2025:
36,500 Hours of Legal Help & Funding for 80 Law Student Interns
In the past year, PILI Law Student Interns and Graduate Fellows provided 36,500 hours of legal services. We’ve also secured funding to support 80 Interns next year, our largest class ever. Interns come from across the country to serve in Illinois, providing critical services and contributing to urgent policy and advocacy initiatives as well. Learn more »
5 Years and Over 15,000 Questions Answered on Illinois Free Legal Answers
PILI became the administrator of Illinois Free Legal Answers, an online legal clinic for low-income Illinoisans, in August 2019. By our 5th anniversary this year, we’ve engaged hundreds of volunteers to answer 15,843 civil legal questions. It’s the most accessible way for people in Illinois who can’t afford an attorney to get help with their legal problems when they have nowhere else to turn. Learn more »
Celebrating 25 Years of Pro Bono at PILI
We called it the Pro Bono Initiative for the New Millennium, and in 1999, it was a pioneering new effort to engage law firms and corporate legal departments to increase pro bono. In the last quarter century, this program has grown exponentially, with PILI now working at the local level across the state to develop innovative pro bono opportunities, cultivate best practices, and celebrate pro bono service. Learn more »
This is just a snapshot of what PILI is already doing – the programs, networks, and opportunities we already have in place – to fulfill the promise of equal access to justice. We could not have done any of this without the support of donors like you.
One member of the PILI community explained why they support our work: “I support PILI because no public interest law agency is better at promoting volunteerism among the legal community and empowering them to provide critical legal assistance to those in need.”
PILI plays an essential role in fulfilling the promise of equal access to justice, and in the coming years, the work we do will be more urgent and necessary than ever. We’re ready to stand for justice in 2025, and we hope that you’ll join us by making a donation today.
With gratitude,
Michael G. Bergmann
Executive Director
What to learn about other ways to get involved with and support PILI?
- Read more about ways to support PILI and be part of our work
- Learn about our pro bono opportunities
- Attend one of our upcoming programs or events
PILI is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and contributions are tax-deductible as allowable by law. All contributions to PILI also qualify under the Illinois Supreme Court’s Pro Bono Reporting Rule.