It is quite possible that the U.S. side of Hogan Lovells, then known as Hogan & Hartson, was the first firm to create a stand-alone pro bono practice, headed by a dedicated pro bono equity partner in the U.S. in 1970. 

This month Hogan Lovells announced the promotion of Yasmin Waljee OBE to the role of pro bono partner in London. The timing of the announcement is significant, given we find ourselves on the brink of a double dip recession.