State Firms See Benefits of Pro Bono

Two of Oklahoma’s largest law firms, Crowe & Dunlevy and Gable & Gotwals, recognize the value in encouraging pro bono work by its members, and each firm has implemented a pro bono policy to accomplish this goal.

Crowe & Dunlevy has instituted a policy encouraging all attorneys to perform pro bono services. Each associate is given credit for this work for purposes of meeting annual billing requirements. “We don’t just encourage our associates to do pro bono work, it is expected,” Crowe & Dunlevy shareholder Kent Meyers said. “There is no annual requirement for our shareholders, but they also are expected to do pro bono work. Crowe & Dunlevy has undertaken a serious commitment.”

Even prior to institution of its pro bono policy, Crowe & Dunlevy encouraged pro bono work. “I have been at the firm for 42 years, and it has been encouraged for as long as I have practiced here,” Mr. Meyers said. “A policy needs to be in place to take away any uncertainty about what the firm expects as far as pro bono.”

He also said, “Crowe & Dunlevy’s pro bono policy has enormous benefits for the firm. Our lawyers derive great satisfaction from doing pro bono work. The pro bono work we do is done carefully and with as much vigor as any other work that we do.” He noted that the firm’s position on pro bono is commonly a topic of inquiry by law students looking for employment at Crowe & Dunlevy, and the firm likes the answer that it is able to give. He said, “We didn’t adopt a pro bono policy in order to recruit attorneys to our firm, but what we have found is that the more successful law students look forward to doing pro bono work. This is something demanded in today’s marketplace.”

Gable & Gotwals’ pro bono policy encourages attorneys to engage in pro bono activities, and all attorneys are given credit for their pro bono hours for purposes of compensation and bonuses. “Gable & Gotwals is careful to ensure that this is not free legal services for employees, family or friends. This is taking on representations for persons of limited means who do not otherwise have reasonable access to legal assistance,” said Gable & Gotwals Pro Bono Committee Chairperson Timothy Carney. Since instituting its pro bono policy, Mr. Carney said there has been an increase in the amount of pro bono work done by Gable & Gotwals, and in general there is more awareness in the firm about the need for attorneys to contribute their time to pro bono services.

Mr. Carney also said, “The reason for the policy is to encourage, from the top down, our attorneys to become involved in giving back to the community. Gable & Gotwals has resources available, and we want the community to know that we are here to help. This is an important obligation when you have been so fortunate. It is more than just giving money. There is a duty to roll up your sleeves and do some work. Through pro bono, we are able to help people on a very human level dealing with daily issues. This provides a very personal satisfaction.”

Another intangible benefit that Gable & Gotwals receives as a direct result of its pro bono work is the experience it brings to younger attorneys. Mr. Carney said, “Often, newer attorneys have to wait a couple of years before having direct client contact or going to court; however, pro bono work enables young attorneys to get this experience at an earlier stage.”

Both Crowe & Dunlevy and Gable & Gotwals are leading the way in Oklahoma through implementing these pro bono policies, and as a direct result, they are reaping many benefits. If you would like to share your firm’s plan for pro bono service, submissions should be forwarded to: probono@okbar.org or Pro Bono Services Subcommittee, c/o Heidi J. Long, 204 N. Robinson, Suite 1550, Oklahoma City, 73102.