Igniting the Pro Bono Spirit: Pro Bono SG Launches Inaugural Pro Bono Weeks
Pro Bono SG kicked off its inaugural Pro Bono Weeks with an inspiring Fireside Chat at the Singapore Management University (SMU) Law School, marking a new chapter in Singapore’s legal landscape. The event, which coincides with the Opening of the Legal Year, brought together seasoned pro bono practitioners and aspiring lawyers to explore the transformative power of pro bono work.
A Legacy of Service
Opening the session, Pro Bono SG’s newly appointed Chairman, Mr Dinesh Dhillon, emphasised that the initiative is about more than just launching a new event series; it is about continuing a legacy that predates Singapore’s independence. “This legacy we are holding in pro bono work started generations ago. It’s been carried by lawyers who were around when Singapore was born as an independent nation in 1965 and existed with lawyers even before that. That’s what’s special about the legal profession. That’s what makes it a calling,” Dinesh reflected.
Beyond Legal Aid: Finding Purpose Through Service
The event featured a distinguished panel of Pro Bono Ambassadors, including Senior Counsel Abraham Vergis, Mr Josephus Tan, Ms Viviene Sandhu, and Ms Peggy Sarah Yee. They shared candid stories and insights about their pro bono journeys, revealing that pro bono work, besides providing access to justice for the unserved, underserved and vulnerable groups, is also a transformative experience that enriches both the practitioner and the profession.
Mr Josephus Tan shared a particularly moving account of his first pro bono case. What began as an attempt to gain criminal defence experience evolved into a profound lesson in humility and service when his client’s family, despite their limited means, presented him with a handmade hamper as a gesture of gratitude. “Through them, I found myself,” Tan reflected. “Every single case makes me a little bit more human.”
Breaking Down Barriers
The panel highlighted how pro bono work often transcends conventional legal practice. Senior Counsel Abraham Vergis shared how his fluency in Malay became an unexpected asset in serving the community, enabling him to understand cultural nuances and build deeper connections with clients. Similarly, Ms Viviene Sandhu recounted her experiences in helping foreign domestic workers seek justice, emphasising how legal representation can provide both practical solutions and emotional closure for vulnerable individuals.
Evolving Landscape of Pro Bono Services
The discussion also touched on the evolving nature of pro bono services in Singapore. With the establishment of the Public Defender’s Office, Pro Bono SG is diversifying its services beyond criminal law. The panellists encouraged young lawyers to think creatively about addressing unmet legal needs and exploring new modalities of providing access to justice.
Starting Small, Achieving Impact
For law students and young lawyers wondering how to begin their pro bono journey, the panel advised to start with manageable commitments like legal clinics. “You will be amazed by the difference you can make even in those short sessions,” noted Senior Counsel Abraham Vergis, sharing how even a 20-minute consultation can provide significant relief to someone in need. Ms Peggy Yee echoed these sentiments, adding that while pro bono work can be complex and challenging, this should not be a deterrent to embarking on this journey, as the rewards far outweigh the difficulties.
Breakout sessions
Following the panel discussion, attendees engaged in intimate breakout sessions with the Pro Bono Ambassadors. Senior Counsel Abraham Vergis highlighted the potential benefits that could come with the automation of processes and emphasised the importance of providing support no matter the difficulty of a case. Mr Josephus Tan spoke about the emotional challenges in pro bono work, particularly when interacting with disadvantaged communities, and emphasised maintaining professionalism. Ms Peggy Sarah Yee shared her experiences in dealing with clients with special needs and disabilities and encouraged those present to use their legal skills for the greater good. Ms Viviene Sandhu advised those exploring different specialisations of law to gain experience and reminded them of the immeasurable benefits of helping others.
One message resonated deeply: pro bono work isn’t just about giving—it’s about growing as a professional and as a person. In Chairman Dinesh’s words, “Meaning and purpose comes from giving to others, and especially those who are less well off than you. When you do it, trust me, you’ll be more rewarded than even them.”
Looking Ahead
The launch of Pro Bono Weeks represents a significant milestone in Singapore’s commitment to making justice accessible. The initiative will span several weeks and culminate at the annual fundraising walkathon, Just Jalan, at OCBC Square, Sports Hub on 8 February 2025, offering various ways for the legal community to contribute to the pro bono cause.
The inaugural Pro Bono Weeks stands as a testament to the local legal profession’s enduring commitment to service, promising to inspire the next generation of lawyers to continue this vital tradition of giving back to society.