In 2005, Robinson & Cole reached a milestone: our 160th anniversary. As the year unfolded, we celebrated many things, including our unique culture, our employees, our client service strategy, and our support of community and charitable organizations. Along with community service, the firm has a notable history of pro bono service, including years of leadership roles in many of the state’s legal services organizations.

As the firm continues to grow, so does the profile of our pro bono program and the breadth of pro bono matters with which we are involved. While our attorneys and other professionals are involved in a wide variety of pro bono matters, the firm has focused much of its pro bono and community outreach in the areas of family and children. Through active involvement with community organizations, schools, and countless nonprofit organizations, our lawyers and staff continue to work to improve the quality of life for young people and their families. A tremendous amount of personal satisfaction results from pro bono work centered on family and children. "It's the right thing to do" is a sentiment frequently heard at Robinson & Cole. "When you represent these kids, you're truly on the side of angels. You are their voice; you are trying your best to get the right circumstances for them." Pro bono work also provides another tangible benefit: the firm's junior associates gain invaluable legal experience. Included are opportunities such as taking the lead on matters and acting as primary contact for the client—experience they might not otherwise get so early in their careers.

The firm fully supports attorney, staff, and summer associate involvement in pro bono service. We have an active Pro Bono Committee, consisting of partners, counsel, and associates from various departments and across all offices of the firm. The committee is responsible for establishing policies and approving certain pro bono matters. In addition, the committee distributes a quarterly pro bono newsletter designed to keep everyone informed about Robinson & Cole's current pro bono projects and new pro bono opportunities, and to highlight and commend those who are getting involved and making a difference for a pro bono client.