Like many individuals and organizations concerned about justice and community development, Bodman attorneys have supported local charities for decades. Several years ago, however, we brought our commitment to a new level.

Recognizing that there are some things only lawyers can do, we focused our legal knowledge and skills where they would have the most direct impact—sometimes a huge one—in our communities and in the lives of those with little or no access to legal services.

As a result of our work, people about to lose their homes have kept them. Individuals whose criminal records were expunged have found new dignity and better-paying jobs. And sophisticated legal services to organizations serving low-income populations have spurred land revitalization and economic development.

Bodman’s pro bono efforts are diverse, but our commitment to delivering them is singular and abiding. A few examples of our recent pro bono activities appear below.

Criminal record expungements help start new lives

Bodman has handled numerous pro bono referrals from the Legal Aid and Defender Association involving expungement of old criminal records. As a result, one of our clients has enrolled in nursing school, another has started a career in social work, and a third has become employed in the field of home health care.

Ann Arbor Film Festival’s funding restored

The Ann Arbor Film Festival is recognized internationally as one of the most creative and long-running experimental film festivals in the U.S. After the State of Michigan withheld funding from the Film Festival because of new guidelines that specified topics disapproved by the State, the Festival turned to Bodman. In response to a First Amendment lawsuit, the State altered its funding criteria.

Free legal clinics for Women’s Center of Southeastern Michigan

Every month, our lawyers provide free, private consultations to qualified women on a range of civil and business law issues. Our attorneys support the goal of the nonprofit center: to help women realize their emotional, professional, and financial potential.