March 1, 2019

Nebraska Law's pro bono work earns national honors

The pro bono work of faculty and students recently earned a national recognition for Nebraska Law. Ryan Sullivan (center), a professor of law, also collected an individual honor for his pro bono service.
Craig Chandler | University Communication

Craig Chandler | University Communication
The pro bono work of faculty and students recently earned a national recognition for Nebraska Law. Ryan Sullivan (center), a professor of law, also collected an individual honor for his pro bono service.

The University of Nebraska College of Law was recognized as a national leader for its dedication to pro bono work and participation in the American Bar Association’s Free Legal Answers program.

The Pro Bono Leader award is presented annually by the association’s Standing Committee on Pro Bono and Public Service. It is presented to individual attorneys, law firms and law departments that provide extraordinary pro bono services through the Free Legal Answers program. The program offers access to legal help to individuals with low incomes.

As part of this virtual advice clinic, users post their civil legal questions to their state’s website. Attorney volunteers who are authorized to provide pro bono assistance select questions to answer and provide legal information and advice.

The Pro Bono Leader distinction recognizes organizations that have collectively answered 75 or more questions during the calendar year. The Nebraska College of Law answered 135 total questions in 2018 and is the only law school to receive this recognition.

Professors Kristen Blankley, Kevin Ruser and Ryan Sullivan each participated in this initiative, as did a number of Nebraska Law students.

“Our students and faculty have demonstrated a dedication to our community through their participation in this program,” said Richard Moberly, dean of Nebraska Law. “I am extremely proud of Professor Sullivan for helping to lead this effort.”

Sullivan also received individual recognition as a Pro Bono Leader, by answering more than 50 questions last year. In addition to dedicating his own time to answering questions, Sullivan also supervised law students participating in this program.

Learn more about Nebraska Law.