October is Pro Bono Month, a time to highlight the need for pro bono service and to celebrate the attorneys who dedicate their time and talent to helping low-income Ohioans resolve civil legal challenges.
The Ohio Access to Justice Foundation proudly supports pro bono initiatives, including the Pro Bono Survey, an annual collaboration between the Foundation and the Supreme Court of Ohio that collects information on pro bono volunteerism and financial contributions to legal services organizations in Ohio. In 2025, the survey reported 112,000 hours of pro bono work valued at more than $28 million.
BakerHostetler reported 3,719 pro bono hours on the survey, ranking among the top firms statewide for 2025. Karl Fanter, a partner in BakerHostetler’s Cleveland office and co-chair of the firm’s national pro bono committee, told the Foundation that pro bono is supported throughout the firm.
“When a pro bono matter comes in the door, it’s treated just the same as one of our paying clients,” Fanter said. “I think that’s important, because besides lawyers just wanting to do the right thing, these pro bono matters are really good training, particularly for our associates.”
For attorneys seeking new pro bono opportunities, Pro Bono Ohio is an online platform that helps them find volunteer opportunities that match their interests, location, skill sets, and availability. As it enters its second year of operation, Pro Bono Ohio has attracted thousands of visitors and connected many attorneys with legal aid and other civil legal service providers through its posts.
“We’ve heard a lot of positive feedback about Pro Bono Ohio from attorneys who have tried it,” said Sophia Chang, director of the Ohio Justice Bus and a user of the platform. “I’d encourage every attorney to check it out, as there are so many fantastic providers and opportunities ready to match with volunteers.”
Join the Foundation in celebrating Pro Bono Month. Visit Pro Bono Ohio to learn more about volunteer opportunities near you.