Our Commitment to the Communities in Which We Live and Work

Since our inception over 60 years ago, Farella Braun + Martel has actively participated in our local communities. Through pro bono work, charitable giving, and participation in nonprofit and civic organizations, we honor our core principles of giving back to the community, supporting underrepresented individuals, and protecting the rule of law.

Why Pro Bono?

Access to justice is foundational for a law firm because it embodies the core principles of fairness, equality, and the rule of law. Ensuring that all individuals, regardless of their socio-economic status or popularity, have the ability to seek legal solutions and protection is essential for maintaining public trust and confidence in the legal system. As a law firm committed to access to justice, Farella upholds ethical standards and contributes to a more equitable society by advocating for the rights of the marginalized and vulnerable. This commitment fosters a culture of integrity and responsibility within the firm, and enhances its reputation and effectiveness in serving the community. Ultimately, access to justice is a legal obligation and a moral imperative that drives the mission and values of a law firm.

My pro bono appellate work, which included an argument before the Ninth Circuit as an associate, not only provided me with a valuable experience but great personal satisfaction from knowing I was helping someone who would otherwise have no access to legal assistance.

Farella Associate

The Rule of Law is the Foundation of Justice

Farella supports the rule of law because it is the cornerstone of a just and orderly society. The rule of law ensures that everyone, from government entities to private individuals, is held accountable under the same legal standards, thereby preventing abuses of power and protecting fundamental rights.

By advocating for and upholding the rule of law, Farella contributes to the stability and predictability necessary for economic and social development. We believe that lawyers and law firms must promote justice, fairness, and equality, reinforcing the foundational principles upon which the legal system is built. The rule of law sets the goalposts that allow for commerce to freely exist in an environment where contracts are binding and enforceable – creating fairness that drives opportunity.

Opportunities for Growth and Development

Pro bono work provides lawyers with invaluable opportunities for growth and development through hands-on experience in diverse legal areas. We encourage our attorneys to engage in pro bono matters to build their skills in client interaction, case management, and legal research, often in situations where resources are limited, and creativity is required. For our litigators, we regularly second them to local district attorney offices to gain real-world, first-chair trial experience. 

Some benefits of pro bono experience are enhanced leadership, professional competence, and a sense of social responsibility and empathy. Our lawyers who engage in pro bono work expand their professional network, connecting them with other professionals and clients who share a commitment to justice. Ultimately, the challenges and rewards of pro bono work contribute to the holistic development of young lawyers, shaping them into well-rounded, compassionate, and skilled legal professionals.