Solicitors make up the overwhelming majority of the 3,760 lawyers recognised on the first official list endorsed by the lady chief justice for their pro bono work.

Set up by the attorney general’s pro bono committee, the Pro Bono Recognition List of England and Wales was designed to recognise the legal profession’s contribution to supporting those in need.

The list, published last week, names 3,284 solicitors and 476 barristers.

Baroness Carr of Walton-on-the-Hill said: ‘The judiciary sees first-hand the importance of pro bono advice and representation in assisting those who might not otherwise receive legal help. I am pleased to recognise and thank all those solicitors and barristers who have undertaken 25 hours or more of pro bono work over the last year. I hope that recognition on the list encourages the legal profession to continue its commitment to providing pro bono help to those in need.’

Law Society president Nick Emmerson said lawyers' generosity ensured justice is not just for the privileged.

‘This list reminds us of the crucial role pro bono plays in our society, filling the gaps left by an overburdened and underfunded legal aid system. An increasing number of individuals find themselves without the necessary support to navigate the legal system. While we celebrate the Pro Bono Recognition List and the dedication of thousands of lawyers, there is an urgent need to strengthen and expand legal aid to ensure that justice, as a fundamental right, is truly accessible to all,' Emmerson added.

Nick Emmerson

Emmerson: 'List reminds us of the crucial role pro bono plays'

Source: Darren Filkins

Bar Council chair Sam Townend KC thanked the 476 barristers for championing justice, noting that a 40% real terms reduction in government spend on legal aid on barristers over the past 14 years ‘unfortunately means that this work is the only means that thousands have of obtaining professional advice and representation’.

Lawyers must have carried at least 25 hours of pro bono work during the previous year to feature on the list. The declaration that the relevant solicitors and barristers have undertaken the pro bono work is taken on trust. Organisations that make bulk submissions are responsible for confirming the accuracy of the information submitted. Lawyers making individual submissions are similarly required to attest to the accuracy of the information they submit.