Pro Bono legal eagles honoured

JOHANNESBURG SOUTH – The onus to show appreciation and give recognition for the great contribution made to the community by pro bono attorneys, inspired the inaugural Pro Bono Awards.

On October 7, one of South Africa’s foremost legal minds, Judge Kathleen Satchwell, gave an address to more than 150 legal professionals and journalists in Johannesburg.

“The Constitution is a wonderful piece of paper. It proclaims ideals and rights for all of us – rich and poor, of every race and creed. But it means very little if we cannot enforce these rights. I have had occasion to enforce my rights before the Constitutional Court – I could not possibly have afforded to do so – but I had an attorney and an advocate who worked pro bono,” said Judge Kathleen Satchwell.

Judge Satchwell emphasised the value of the life changing contribution made by legal professionals who offer some of their valued time and expertise on a pro bono basis, but also the growing number of professionals joining ProBono.Org.

Also speaking at the event was Director at ProBono.Org, Erica Emdon, who noted that: “This important work enables low income members of our society to claim the rights promised to them by our Constitution. I believe that every legal professional must make a lifelong commitment to doing some pro bono work every year, and this should become a key component of being a legal professional.”

She added that the large turnout at the event was a strong indication of the sentiment of the profession towards pro bono work.

“You are unusual, because in this busy world, with so many demands on skills, where expenses are high and where we would all like to be assured of a comfortable and secure professional income, you are one of the few organisations in SA where you proclaim that you work for the public good. At no cost to the poor, to bring the benefits of a free constitution for those whom you serve,” continued Emdon.