(Nashville, TN / January 23, 2009) Baker, Donelson, Bearman, Caldwell & Berkowitz, PC is among nearly 40 Tennessee law firms recognized by the Tennessee Bar Association for its commitment to pro bono legal service. Each of the firms honored at the TBA's annual public service luncheon last Friday at the state capitol adopted a formal pro bono policy calling on its employees to do more for Tennesseans who cannot afford legal representation.
The Pro Bono Policy initiative is one element of a yearlong, multi-faceted TBA campaign called 4 ALL, which has been initiated by TBA President and Baker Donelson shareholder Buck Lewis. The effort is designed to educate the legal profession and the public on the need for increased free legal services in the state, and find new ways for lawyers to participate in pro bono service. Among its many components, the campaign includes a statewide public service day on April 4, 2009, and proposed changes to Supreme Court rules and state laws to encourage greater pro bono work.
With about 10,000 members, the Tennessee Bar Association (TBA) is the largest professional association in Tennessee. Founded in 1881, the TBA provides opportunities for continuing legal education, professional development and public service. The TBA's dedication to serving the state's legal community is evidenced by its membership roll, which represents the entire spectrum of legal practice: plaintiff and defense lawyers, corporate counsel, judges, prosecutors, public defenders, government lawyers and legal services attorneys.