National Legal Service Solicitors is pleased to announce the launch of its dedicated Pro Bono Unit, strengthening the firm’s long-standing commitment to access to justice in family law.
Many people involved in family law matters are facing stressful and sensitive circumstances. Some may not qualify for legal aid, but may still be vulnerable and unable to access legal support without assistance. The Pro Bono Unit has been established to give greater structure and visibility to the pro bono work already taking place across the firm.
The Unit will provide a dedicated forum for reviewing appropriate pro bono matters and supporting the continued development of this work within National Legal Service Solicitors.
Strengthening access to justice in family law
Access to legal advice can make a significant difference for people dealing with family law issues. This can be especially important where someone is involved in court proceedings, dealing with safeguarding concerns or trying to understand their options during a difficult period.
The launch of the Pro Bono Unit reflects NLS’s continued commitment to helping improve access to justice for vulnerable individuals and families. It also recognises the work already being carried out by colleagues across the firm in supporting people who may otherwise struggle to access legal representation.
The Unit does not replace legal aid and it does not operate as a direct public enquiry route. Instead, it provides a structured internal process for considering pro bono opportunities referred through appropriate pathways.
Working in partnership with Pro Bono Connect
National Legal Service Solicitors is also pleased to announce its partnership with Pro Bono Connect through the Pro Bono Unit.
Pro Bono Connect plays an important role in matching pro bono clients with solicitors and barristers who may be able to assist. By working with Pro Bono Connect, NLS can support a recognised referral pathway and contribute to the wider provision of pro bono legal assistance.
This partnership reflects the importance of collaboration within the legal profession. Family law matters can involve complex issues and people seeking support may need clear guidance from professionals with relevant experience. Working alongside Pro Bono Connect allows NLS to support this work in a structured and responsible way.
Recognising pro bono work across the firm
The establishment of the Pro Bono Unit is also an important step in recognising the pro bono work already taking place across National Legal Service Solicitors.
Colleagues across the firm regularly see the pressures faced by people who are trying to engage with the legal system during difficult personal circumstances. The Unit brings this work into a dedicated framework, helping to ensure that pro bono matters can be considered carefully and consistently.
By creating the Unit, NLS is giving greater visibility to this work and reinforcing its commitment to family law, community support and access to justice.
How pro bono enquiries are handled
The Pro Bono Unit does not accept direct requests for pro bono support from members of the public.
This is important because pro bono assistance needs to be considered through the right referral pathways and with careful assessment of each matter. NLS is not able to review or accept direct pro bono enquiries sent to the firm.
If you are looking for pro bono legal support, please visit the Pro Bono Connect website for more information about their work and referral routes.
A continued commitment to vulnerable individuals and families
The launch of the Pro Bono Unit marks an important development in NLS’s access to justice work.
Through the Unit, National Legal Service Solicitors will continue to support appropriate pro bono referrals, recognise the contribution of colleagues across the firm and work with Pro Bono Connect to help improve access to legal assistance for those who may otherwise be unable to obtain support.
For more information about the National Legal Service Solicitors Pro Bono Unit, please visit our dedicated Pro Bono Unit page.
