Creating positive impact in our communities
We marshal our talents, tools, and resources to be agents of change—pursuing justice and giving voice to underserved individuals in our communities.
Pro bono services that make an impact
We believe attorneys have the ability and the obligation to advocate for those often overlooked by our justice system. Our pro bono work focuses on racial justice, LGBT+ equality, sustainability, and more—serving vulnerable individuals and families in our surrounding communities and advancing important causes nationwide.
Average of 38
Pro Bono hours per attorney
Over 23,000
pro bono hours firmwide in 2023
3%
of billable hours pledged to pro bono work – PBI Pro Bono Challenge signatory
79%
attorney participation in pro bono work
Pro Bono Highlights
LGBTQ+ rights: Fighting for transgender health equity
A team of NP Chicago attorneys successfully represented two transgender women in Iowa whose gender-affirming surgeries were denied by Medicare. Their victory before the Iowa Supreme Court could have far-reaching effects on discriminatory state laws across the nation.
Immigration and humanitarian response: Resettling Afghan refugees
When the Taliban retook control of Afghanistan in summer 2021, NP immediately created a team of more than 25 legal professionals to support the safe and rapid migration of Afghan refugees to the United States. With our nonprofit partners, we assisted more than 850 Afghans departing the country amid increasing turmoil.
It’s truly inspiring to see how our work translates to tangible results for our clients, their businesses, and our communities.
Sharmaine HengDirector of Pro Bono & Social Impact
Social impact in action
We make a positive impact by giving back with our time, resources, and talent.
Rolling up our sleeves for Nixon Peabody Impact Week of Service
Across Nixon Peabody, colleagues continued a favorite firmwide tradition that embodies our collective spirit of giving and service.
Pro Bono & Social Impact Snapshot
Learn more about our Pro Bono and Social Impact program and how that work embodies our core values of equity, access, and opportunity.
Joining forces through pro bono and volunteerism
We partner with local and national organizations where we believe our pro bono and community service efforts can help make a measurable community difference.
Our areas of focus include education, affordable housing, community and economic development, healthcare, social services, and civil legal aid.
Charitable giving
We spearhead charitable giving initiatives at all levels of the firm. We support inspiring organizations across the country. Our local offices host regular fundraising drives, including to benefit veterans and people experiencing homelessness.
Community leadership
Our attorneys sit on the boards of organizations that strengthen our local communities and often link to our pro bono and volunteerism efforts.
Achievements & Recognitions
Law Firm Pro Bono Challenge®
Beacon of Justice Award
Law Firm of the Year
The AIDS Legal Referral Panel recognized Nixon Peabody for its longstanding pro bono work with the organization.
Pro Bono Publico Champion
NP was recognized by LatinoJustice, which advocates for equitable and accessible justice, especially for the US Latino community.
Human Rights in Action Award
Presented to our firm by Stanford’s Center for Human Rights and International Justice, which is dedicated to protecting and promoting dignity and rights for all.