Bernstein Shur has named Maura Kelly as its first dedicated Director of Pro Bono, marking a significant investment in the firm’s longstanding commitment to service and expanding access to justice.
Service has been woven into the fabric of the firm since its founding in 1915, when Israel Bernstein built a practice grounded in strengthening his community and advocating for those with limited access to resources and support. Today, the firm continues to honor this commitment to service through its Pro Bono Committee, firmwide days of service, paid volunteer time, and partnerships with community organizations.
Maura will build on that tradition by leading the continued development of Bernstein Shur’s pro bono program. In her role, she will work directly with the firm’s practice groups, Pro Bono Committee, and community partners to create meaningful service opportunities for attorneys across experience levels. Her work will also connect pro bono matters with attorney development, giving lawyers opportunities to build practical skills while serving individuals and organizations in need.
“Pro bono service is a core part of our firm’s history, and we see tremendous potential to expand our impact with a talented, dedicated person who can focus on this important work,” said Kaveri Subbarao Nauhaus, CEO. “Creating a dedicated leadership position gives us the resources to strengthen our partnerships, support our attorneys, and develop a more robust program for the future. Maura’s background makes her exceptionally well suited to lead that effort.”
Maura brings extensive experience in pro bono, public service, and attorney career development. She most recently served as Director of Career Development at the University of Maine School of Law and previously established Boston University School of Law’s first formal pro bono program. Her career has also included leadership roles at Northeastern University School of Law and Harvard Law School, as well as serving as Senior Manager for Access to Justice with the Massachusetts Trial Court. Earlier in her career, Maura practiced law in both public interest and private practice settings, giving her a broad perspective on legal service, access to justice, and the development of lawyers at every stage of their careers.
Shareholder Hilary Holmes Rheaume, who has served as Director of Community Engagement and led the firm’s pro bono efforts over the past two years, will work closely with Maura during the transition and remain involved as a resource to the program.
“I first visited Bernstein Shur 20 years ago in my role as a law school dean. My immediate impression was one of amazement. Then and now, it is an extraordinary law firm, with outstanding legal talent and an impactful history of pro bono work and public service central to its mission,” Maura said. “I am honored to help contribute to this history and look forward to working with my new colleagues and community partners to create opportunities for service.”
Maura is based in Bernstein Shur’s Portland office.