On Thursday, September 8th, the Sixth Judicial Circuit Pro Bono Committee hosted the Illinois Forum on Pro Bono. Over 20 attendees representing a cross-section of pro bono stakeholders from the legal community met in Monticello to discuss timely pro bono issues.
The program began with a panel discussion that explored the need for free legal assistance for individuals and families living in poverty in the Sixth Judicial Circuit. Almost 33% of Illinois’ citizens are low-income, with 6.8% of the total population living in extreme poverty. They also discussed ways in which the community is addressing these needs and the rules of professional conduct that are relevant to pro bono practice.
Presenters:
- Michael G. Bergmann, Executive Director, Public Interest Law Initiative (PILI)
- Honorable Holly F. Clemons, Associate Judge, Circuit Court of Champaign County
- Valerie McWilliams, Attorney & Pro Bono Coordinator, Land of Lincoln Legal Assistance Foundation
- Honorable Timothy J. Steadman, Presiding Circuit Judge, Circuit Court of Piatt County
Following the panel discussion, attendees participated in small group discussions focused on identifying barriers and obstacles to pro bono, shared best practices, and developed strategies to enhance and expand pro bono.
This program was complimentary, and attendees received 2.0 hours of Illinois MCLE Professional Responsibility credit. They ended the day with a networking reception.
Learn more about the Sixth Judicial Circuit Pro Bono Committee »
Learn more about PILI’s Pro Bono Roundtables and Forums »