Research Project: Engaging Retiring/Career Break Lawyers and Barristers in Pro Bono Legal Work

Australia does not have any pro bono programs which are aimed specifically at lawyers and barristers approaching retirement or those temporarily out of the workforce (such as lawyers taking a career break).

The National Pro Bono Resource Centre based at the University of New South Wales is currently undertaking a research project on how to engage these lawyers and barristers in pro bono legal activities. The Centre is currently consulting with stakeholders such as pro bono directors from law firms, law societies, bar associations, retired lawyers, career break lawyers, Public Interest Clearing Houses and Community Legal Centres around the country. We are very keen to consult with lawyers and barristers who are close to retirement, and lawyers and barristers who are on career break, to seek their interest on how to engage retiring or career break lawyers and barristers in pro bono legal work.

If you are interested (or you know someone who is) in being part of this research project please contact Sophie Grieve of the National Pro Bono Resource Centre on sophie@nationalprobono.org.au or 02  9385 7776. We are looking to conduct these consultations as soon as possible, and further involving you in a round table discussion to take place on Thursday March 5, 2009 here in Sydney.

Thank you.

Sophie Grieve