We believe everyone at the firm—from our legal assistants to finance professionals to lawyers—has a responsibility not only to our clients, but also to the communities they help strengthen. That’s why we’ve built service into the fabric of the firm—through pro bono work, volunteer hours, dedicated community leadership, and firmwide initiatives that make giving back a shared commitment.
Pro bono with purpose
Our approach to pro bono work is the same as our approach to client service: driven by care, commitment, and an eye toward long-term impact. Using our skills to support individuals and organizations who might not otherwise have access to legal help is one of the ways we put our values into practice. The firm provides time, resources, and structure to ensure this work is not only possible, but encouraged at every level.
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Structural support
We actively encourage and provide room for our attorneys to do meaningful pro bono work to expand access to justice.
Meaningful outcomes
We focus on cases that advance equity, protect rights, and support clients facing barriers to legal representation.
Early-career investment
As part of their experience, our Summer Associates have the unique opportunity to serve our preeminent legal service organization partners through a fellowship, helping to build practical skills and deepen their commitment to public interest work.
Since its founding in 1915, Bernstein Shur has made pro bono work and community service integral to our identity. It’s not just something we do; it’s part of our core values to use our skills and knowledge to improve the lives of those around us. This commitment drew me to the firm years ago and continues to attract attorneys who are passionate about supporting their communities.
Hilary Holmes Rheaume
Director of Pro Bono and Community Service
Showing up for our communities.
We make space for every member of the firm to contribute, not just through legal service but through direct, hands-on involvement. From firmwide initiatives to individual volunteer time, this work helps connect us to the places we live and the people we serve.
Firmwide days of service
Once a year, we all volunteer together for a half day, partnering with local charity partners to meet real community needs.
Time off to give back
All employees receive two full days of paid volunteer time annually. Community engagement is supported at every level—not just in legal work.
Organized for impact
Our community work is supported by leadership, coordinated across the firm, and backed by infrastructure, including a dedicated Director of Pro Bono and Community Service to help guide and grow our efforts.
From my first days at Bernstein Shur, I was struck by how deeply pro bono and community service are woven into the fabric of the firm. There’s a shared commitment to giving back—not only because it’s the right thing to do, but because it helps us grow. Through this work, we gain new skills, deepen our empathy, broaden our understanding of critical issues, connect with other engaged leaders, and strengthen the tools we need to be effective lawyers and leaders.
Arnold C. Macdonald
Of Counsel
Rolling up our sleeves
We don’t just support our communities from behind a desk—we show up. From farms and food pantries to public parks and shelters, our team rolls up its sleeves to pitch in where it counts. This hands-on work reflects who we are: engaged, grounded, and committed to making a tangible difference.
