Manchester, NH – (September 17, 2024) – Bernstein Shur is thrilled to announce that Hilary Holmes Rheaume, shareholder in the firm’s Manchester office, has been named as the new Director of Pro Bono and Community Service.
Pro bono and community service work has been an integral part of Bernstein Shur’s identity since its founding in 1915, reflecting the firm’s deep commitment to giving back to the communities it serves. In 2023 alone, Bernstein Shur attorneys committed a total of 2,958.50 hours of pro bono work, valued at $958,098 at traditional firm rates. Rheaume’s new role will focus on continuing this tradition of service while expanding the firm’s impact in underserved areas.
Rheaume has made pro bono and community service work a top priority in her career. She has represented victims of domestic and sexual violence in the federal and state courts, and served on numerous non-profit boards, including the New Hampshire Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence and New Hampshire Legal Assistance. Personally, giving back is part of her family’s core values: Rheaume, her husband and her children have collectively participated in more than eight service trips to El Salvador.
“I’m honored to take on this role at Bernstein Shur, where the firm’s strong commitment to pro bono work and community service first drew me in years ago,” said Rheaume. “Providing pro bono legal services and serving the community have reinforced my belief in the power of volunteerism—not just for individuals, but as a core value within an organization. To make a meaningful difference, it must be woven into the organization’s foundation. I’m passionate about giving back and excited to help expand our positive impact on the communities we serve.”
Rheaume’s leadership extends beyond community service. She currently serves as Co-Chair of the New Hampshire Bar Association Leadership Academy Steering Committee and has a well-earned reputation for excellence as an attorney within Bernstein Shur and among her peers.
“Hilary has long been recognized as a rising star at Bernstein Shur, making her appointment both timely and well-deserved,” said Joan Fortin, CEO, Bernstein Shur. In January 2024, Rheaume was named a shareholder, and she has received numerous accolades for her work, including being recognized by Chambers USA 2024 as “Up and Coming” in Litigation and listed in Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch® in America 2025. She has also received the National Association of Women’s Lawyers Award, University of New Hampshire School of Law, and was named to the New Hampshire Union Leader’s “40 Under Forty” list in 2022.
“Her leadership and dedication to both her clients and the community make her the ideal candidate to guide the firm’s pro bono initiatives into the future.” said Fortin. “Her passion for service and her commitment to excellence have made her an invaluable part of our team. We look forward to the impact she will continue to have on the community through this position.”
For more information about Bernstein Shur’s pro bono work and community service initiatives, visit here.
About Bernstein Shur
Bernstein Shur Sawyer & Nelson is a New England-based law firm that advises clients across the U.S. and around the world. Our 100+ award-winning attorneys and professionals practice in more than 20 critical areas and a variety of industries. To learn more, visit www.bernsteinshur.com.