Overview
International law firm McDermott Will & Emery has received the 2024 Beacon of Justice Award from the National Legal Aid & Defender Association (NLADA). The recognition is awarded to law firms that are addressing civil and human rights issues through their pro bono work.
At the heart of McDermott’s pro bono practice is a dedication to ensuring equal access to justice for all. The Firm partners with nonprofits and community-based organizations to advocate for asylum seekers; champion human and civil rights; and fight for housing, education, food, benefits and economic justice for individuals in our communities.
“We emphasize three key global initiatives: providing legal services to displaced persons around the world; fighting wrongful convictions; and supporting nonprofits, small businesses and entrepreneurs from traditionally marginalized communities,” said Elizabeth Lewis, McDermott’s pro bono and community service partner. “Acknowledging the Firm’s commitment to equality and justice, this award further inspires us to strengthen our collaboration with pro bono partner organizations.”
Our pro bono efforts have yielded impactful results, with recent examples highlighted below.
- Supreme Court Win Gives Hope to Transgender Immigrant, Clarifies Legal Requirements
- Pro Bono Class Action Settlement Safeguards Low-Income Families
- Historic Black Church Secures Permit to Operate in Texas
- After Tragedy, Nigerian Teenagers Secure Path to US Citizenship
- Standing in Support of LGBTQ+ Health Insurance Rights
- Tennessee Agrees to Provide Immigration Services to Foster Youth in State Care
- Collaborating With the National Health Law Program in Research Supporting Black Transgender, Gender Nonconforming and Intersex Individuals
NLADA is the oldest and largest nonprofit association in the United States devoted to delivering legal services to those who cannot afford counsel. It provides advocacy, guidance, information, training and technical assistance for members of the equal justice community, particularly those working in public defense and civil legal aid.
View NLADA’s press release here.
About McDermott
McDermott Will & Emery partners with leaders around the world to fuel missions, knock down barriers and shape markets. Our team works seamlessly across practices and industries to deliver highly effective solutions that propel success. More than 1,400 lawyers strong, we bring our personal passion and legal prowess to bear in every matter for our clients and the people they serve.
