Ireland’s annual Pro Bono Week, running from 9–13 June 2025 as part of European Pro Bono Week, is organised by PILA — the Public Interest Law Alliance — which is a project of access to justice NGO FLAC.

It will take place in partnership with law firms A&L Goodbody LLP, Arthur Cox LLP, DLA Piper Ireland LLP, Matheson LLP, McCann FitzGerald LLP, the Voluntary Assistance Scheme, and the Law Society of Ireland.

This year’s events include:

• “What Can Pro Bono do For Your NGO?” (Monday 9 June) where leading pro bono practitioners will explain how NGOs can benefit from free legal assistance.

• “EU wide Launch of Pro Bono Week” (Tuesday 10 June) This year’s European Pro Bono Week focuses on “Strengthening Civic Participation in Europe”. The event brings together legal, civil society, and human rights experts to discuss practical strategies for protecting civic space, promoting democratic engagement, and supporting equality and solidarity across Europe.

• “Amplifying Impact and Access to Justice” (Wednesday 11 June) featuring the launch of the 2024 Pro Bono Impact Report by PILA and three panel discussions on the significant pro bono contributions individual practitioners can make during their careers; on how independent law centres and law firms can work together to advance social justice; and how NGOs utilise pro bono to further their goals.

Eilis Barry, chief executive of FLAC, said: “Pro Bono Week 2025 is focused on bringing free legal assistance to the community and using its power to achieve meaningful social change.

“Pro bono is an important component of Ireland’s access to justice architecture. At its most effective, it can address the barriers to justice faced by people experiencing discrimination and disadvantage and who often have multiple, inter-related legal issues.

“I salute all those who provide legal services free of charge for their inspiration and commitment to social justice, equality and human rights.”

Arthur Cox managing partner Geoff Moore said: “Pro Bono Week is a powerful reminder of the legal profession’s capacity to drive positive change.

“At Arthur Cox LLP, we are proud to stand alongside our peers in using our legal expertise to support those who might otherwise be denied access to justice.

“The week is not only about celebrating what has been achieved, but also about deepening our commitment to equality, dignity, and the rule of law.”

McCann FitzGerald managing partner Stephen Holst said: “Providing free legal services to those who are unable to access or afford them is a fundamental aspect of our firm’s ethos.

“McCann FitzGerald are immensely proud to play an active role in the planning and coordination of Pro Bono Week Ireland.

“This important week not only allows us to celebrate the positive impact achieved so far, but also serves as a catalyst to further strengthen the pro bono ecosystem.

“It is an opportunity to set ambitious, tangible goals and to ensure that pro bono work continues to grow and flourish across Ireland, making a meaningful difference in the lives of those who need it most.”

Marcus Walsh, legal director at DLA Piper Ireland, said: “DLA Piper is proud to support Pro Bono Week 2025. This is an important week for reflecting on the pro bono contributions which have been made across the community and exploring how best we can best address unmet legal needs in critical areas.

“As a global law firm, DLA Piper is focussed on pursuing justice in our communities around the world and we are proud to do so with our partners in the Public Interest Law Alliance.”

Niamh Counihan, Matheson’s pro bono partner, said: “Pro Bono Week highlights and celebrates the legal profession’s contribution, in collaboration with community organisations and independent law centres, to supporting access to justice for those in our community who cannot afford legal assistance.

“Matheson LLP is delighted to continue working together with our colleagues in the legal profession to provide free legal assistance to those who need it most and make a positive impact in the communities in which we live and work.”