Bodman named to SBM 'Pro Bono Circle of Excellence'

Bodman PLC has been named to the State Bar of Michigan's "Pro Bono Circle of Excellence" for exceeding the State Bar's voluntary standards for pro bono activities. The "Circle" represents firms that address the often unmet legal needs of the poor, while also inspiring other attorneys to be of service. "Pro bono representation of worthy organizations and individuals in need is an important part of our commitment to the community," said Bodman Chairman Ralph E. McDowell. "The success of our pro bono program is the result of an incredible level of support these efforts have received from our attorneys and staff." In 2010, Bodman attorneys devoted 3,078 hours to pro bono projects, and the firm and its attorneys contributed more than $100,000 to the State Bar's Access to Justice Fund and other eligible charities. Bodman paralegals and summer associates devoted an additional 268 pro bono hours. In addition to pro bono hours, Bodman attorneys devoted more than 2,000 hours to community service projects as directors or volunteers with numerous nonprofit organizations. Bodman has partnered with several referral sources to help assure that its pro bono efforts make the maximum impact. Significant referral sources have included Legal Aid and Defender Association, Community Legal Resources, and the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan, among others. Published: Fri, Jun 17, 2011