Paul Hastings Honored in The National Law Journal’s Pro Bono Hot List

May 08, 2020

New York – Paul Hastings LLP, a leading global law firm, announced today that the firm was included on The National Law Journal (NLJ)’s 2020 Pro Bono Hot List. The annual list honors law firms that, according to the NLJ, are “dedicated to making a monumental impact on the lives of those in need.” Paul Hastings is one of just 18 firms recognized this year.

“We believe every one of our attorneys has an obligation, both professionally and personally, to give back by helping those who are most vulnerable and in need,” said Brian Moran, senior counsel and global pro bono co-chair at Paul Hastings, in a Q&A published in the NLJ. “Our firm seeks to leverage the intelligence, creativity and expertise of our attorneys and staff in order to make the biggest difference in our world and our communities that we can,” he added.

Paul Hastings was recognized by the NLJ for several significant pro bono client successes, including a groundbreaking settlement concluded in January 2020 between California and the American Civil Liberties Union that ensured people accused of crimes are afforded legal counsel as of right under the Sixth Amendment regardless of their financial status. The settlement resolved litigation in which the firm’s lawyers argued that the Fresno County public defender’s office was underfunded and was severely limited in its ability to provide competent and effective representation. California expanded the mission of the state public defender, adding $4 million to its 2020-21 budget and $3.5 million annually thereafter, as well as a $10 million grant to administer a program to fund local public defense systems.

Over the past year, the firm also deepened its commitment to the National Veterans Legal Services Program (NVLSP). The firm’s work ensured that one veteran finally received the full of benefits to which he was entitled. After six years that included a federal court appeal, Paul Hastings ensured that his disability rating was adjusted and that he was awarded retroactive retirement pay and benefits. The firm was named 2019 Pro Bono Partner of the Year by the NVLSP not only for litigating more than 100 individual cases in past years, but also for the firm’s work on policy and law reform.

The firm’s other pro bono efforts include an expanding initiative to combat human trafficking by organizing impact work and driving discussions across multiple industry sectors. In addition, Paul Hastings has established a practice focused specifically on supporting social enterprises all over the world.

The National Law Journal will host its annual legal awards honoring, among others, the firms on the 2020 Pro Bono Hot List on November 5, 2020, in Washington, D.C.

At Paul Hastings, our purpose is clear — to help our clients and people navigate new paths to growth. With a strong presence throughout Asia, Europe, Latin America, and the U.S., Paul Hastings is recognized as one of the world’s most innovative global law firms.