It’s been several months since 2020’s virtual Pro Bono Going Public event, and more British Columbians face legal problems arising from the pandemic. Demand for our free legal services has increased 30% over last year, as people face lost employment, separation, divorce, conflict over parenting arrangements, mental health issues, housing issues and more. For many, this year has brought total instability. Access to free legal help has never been more critical.

To continue to meet the demand for free legal help, we’re organizing our second virtual advice-a-thon. Just like last year, registered lawyers will give free legal advice by telephone or Zoom over 10 days. PBGP 2021’s service and publicity campaign will reach every BC city and town. Together, we will show how much BC lawyers care about access to justice in every community.

The event will run for two weeks (M – F) in the middle of September. Volunteer lawyers will select one or more hour-long telephone shifts. They can then solicit donations in support of their charitable contributions. Clients will be low and modest income British Columbians in need of urgent legal advice. All appointments will be pre-scheduled, with ample time for conflict checks. 

Last year’s event saw a record 149 volunteer lawyers provide free legal advice to 388 British Columbians in need. The event raised an incredible $93,564 in support of our services. With the legal community behind us, we’re hopeful that we can exceed last year’s totals.