The point is that pro bono work will almost certainly result in an experience that is not only rewarding from a moral, ethical and spiritual level, but also in one that will stimulate professional development. Oftentimes, these experiences are such that they would not otherwise be available to young attorneys in a fee-based setting. Simply put, taking advantage of these opportunities allows young attorneys to help themselves while they help others.
There are a number of legal service organizations in Philadelphia that directly provide pro bono services and/or facilitate the placement of attorneys with clients who need legal assistance. Reach out to them. Talk to attorneys who work with them. Find the one that best fits your interests and get involved with a case. You will find that the experience is rewarding on both a personal and professional level and you will feel good knowing that as you gain valuable experience from an early stage in your legal career, you are helping someone that truly needs and appreciates it.
Matthew S. Olesh is an associate in the Philadelphia office of Fox Rothschild. He concentrates his practice on commercial litigation issues including antitrust, bankruptcy, class action defense, corporate governance, employment, environmental compliance, insurance, international law and business disputes, real estate, and white-collar compliance and defense.
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