Chief Judge Anna Blackburne Rigsby of the DC Court of Appeals and Chief Judge Robert Morin of the DC Superior Court have released the eighth annual Capital Pro Bono Honor Roll, recognizing the contributions of those DC Bar members and others authorized to perform legal work who donated 50 hours or more of pro bono service during the last calendar year. The Courts extend their gratitude to the DC Bar Pro Bono Center and the DC Access to Justice Commission for their partnership in sponsoring the Honor Roll.

Over 5,000 attorneys reported performing 50 hours or more of volunteer legal work in 2018 – a new record for the Honor Roll. Even more impressive, 60% of these attorneys (3,047) reported performing 100 hours or more of pro bono work in 2018, qualifying them for inclusion in the High Honor Roll. The DC Courts are especially pleased that the Honor Roll continues to grow, despite attorneys facing ever increasing pressures to bill more hours, work more efficiently, and use fewer resources.

In a joint letter to the honorees, the Chief Judges wrote, "As Chief Judges, we are acutely aware of the severe hardships faced by low-income individuals who all too often must represent themselves in proceedings in the DC Courts, frequently when the opposing party has counsel. We salute you for using your talents and expertise to help those unable to afford an attorney, to ensure that they too have equal access to justice."

The Capital Honor Roll members reflect a diverse cross-section of the DC legal community, representing 168 law firms and scores of solo practices, federal government agencies, and public interest organizations. Their service would not be possible without the support of the District’s legal services community that screens and refers cases, offers training, and provides support and mentorship to pro bono volunteers. The Chief Judges said, “The District of Columbia is fortunate to have a truly extraordinary cadre of legal services organizations whose attorneys work tirelessly every day to make access to justice a reality."

In addition to this recognition from the DC Courts, all Honor Roll members satisfy their professional obligation under Rule 6.1 of the DC Rules of Professional Conduct by performing 50 hours or more of pro bono service. Outside of this professional obligation, Honor Roll members performing pro bono work in the DC Courts demonstrate a commitment to serving their District neighbors.