The annual Pro Bono Week is being supported by our first year trainees who are undertaking the annual Shoosmiths Trainee Pro Bono Challenge. This asks the first year trainees, under appropriate supervision, to provide legal advice to organisations and individuals in the UK addressing the global Sustainable Development Goals but unable to afford to pay for legal advice.
Trainees will be assisting our existing services, including pro bono clinics for individuals, the Manuel Bravo Project, and the ULaw Small Business Advice Line (SBAL).
The Manuel Bravo Project based in Leeds aims to provide legal representation to asylum seekers who would otherwise have none. Clients of the Manuel Bravo Project are referred to Shoosmiths and we provide assistance on a pro bono basis, enabling clients to navigate what can be a complex and stressful procedure. Shoosmiths prepares and submits settlement protection applications (SET(P)) which are applications made on behalf of refugees who are coming to the end of their initial five-year refugee status. If successful, the refugee is granted indefinite leave to remain.
The SBAL virtual pro bono clinic service operates the last Thursday of the month, offering initial advice on a pro bono basis on a variety of corporate and commercial matters supported by aspiring solicitors from the University of Law. The service assists start-ups, entrepreneurs and sole traders and advice ranges from IP, restructuring, NDAs and company formations.
New services are also being explored as part of our commitment to provide pro bono legal advice to individuals and organisations unable to afford legal advice.
Disclaimer
This information is for general information purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. It is recommended that specific professional advice is sought before acting on any of the information given. Please contact us for specific advice on your circumstances. © Shoosmiths LLP 2025.