This year’s Annual Celebration was to recognize the accomplishments made by the many pro bono volunteers and to receive positive feedback from the people who benefit from these pro bono services. It was also an opportunity to thank the PBLA Board, Advisory Board Members and staff for their work that contributed to PBLA’s success.

PBLA presented the Pro Bono Leader In Community Award to Norton Rose Fulbright LLP for their outstanding contributions of the legal community in enhancing greater access to justice for Albertans. Norton Rose participated in three very important pro bono initiatives: Civil Claims Duty Counsel, King’s Bench Amicus Project and the annual Legal Grounds Advice Clinic.

PBLA was honored to have Master Hanebury, QC speak at the podium. Master Hanebury spoke of how the King’s Bench Amicus Project has greatly improved the efficiency of the court system and visibly eased tensions in King’s Bench Chambers.

PBLA was also honored to have a client from the women’s shelter at Discovery House to give a testimonial on the positive impact pro bono services has had on her life. Partnered by PBLA with Discovery House, WK Family Lawyers have been able to empower and enable the client to achieve custody of her children.

All in all, 68 guests attended the AGM including The Honourable Jonathan Denis, QC, Minister of Justice and Solicitor General, members of the judiciary, lawyers, law students, pro bono clinic volunteers and other non-profit/pro bono organizations.