News and stories
Advocate news
Our week of Pro Bono in Action: Pro Bono Week 2025 highlights
From our first ever Advocate Comedy Night to the Greater Manchester Pro Bono Awards, Pro Bono Week 2025 has truly been one to remember for Advocate as we were involved in 26 events nationwide.
Thoughts on Pro Bono Week from our Western Circuit Caseworker
Our Western Circuit Caseworker, Louis, offers his reflections on Pro Bono Week 2025 having been involved in a number of pro bono events in London and the southwest.
Advocate brings laughter to Pro Bono Week 2025
As part of this year's Pro Bono Week celebrations, Advocate was delighted to host its first-ever Comedy Night, Stand Up for Justice, bringing together laughter and generosity in support of pro bono.
Stories from the Bar
Bridging the justice gap on the Western Circuit: Helen Moizer’s story
Helen Moizer, a barrister at No.18 Chambers and former Advocate Caseworker, shares how pro bono work has shaped her early practice. Helen is on the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Pro Bono Committee, and she is working to strengthen regional networks and ensure legal support reaches those most in need in the Western Circuit.
A real ‘feel good’ moment: A pupil barrister on the value of pro bono both for clients and counsel
Family law barrister Beth Payne of Coram Chambers, who has now successfully completed her pupillage, offers her personal and professional reflections on the value of pro bono work. Through Advocate’s Pupil Pledge, she gained hands-on courtroom experience, developed her client care skills, and helped secure a positive outcome for a family in need of free legal help. At a time of growing demand for pro bono work, she reminds us how impactful pro bono work can be, both for those who need it and those who provide it.
Fulfilling multiple goals through a single action: Hear from reviewer Adam Al-Attar KC on the value of volunteering
Adam Al-Attar KC reflects on how a simple recommendation from a senior colleague led to a rewarding journey volunteering with Advocate. From reviewing the merits of cases seeking help through Advocate to taking them on, he highlights how pro bono work not only sharpens legal skills but broadens professional exposure - especially for commercial practitioners.
Stories from people we support
Fighting for fatherhood: How pro bono collaboration helped a parent reclaim his role - Bryan's story*
When Bryan came to Advocate, he was facing every parent’s worst nightmare. A final court order had stripped him of his parental responsibility, changed his child’s surname without his consent, and restricted him to indirect contact only. He was desperate not to lose his relationship with his child. Alone, and without the means to challenge the decision, Bryan turned to Advocate for help.
Challenging a rogue landlord: Leanne’s story
Leanne lived for over two years without hot water in a property that was unfit for habitation. Despite repeated complaints, her landlord refused to fix the boiler, and even attempted to unlawfully enter the property while she was inside. After facing rent arrears, much distress and a job loss, Leanne sought legal support through Advocate, where our volunteer barristers stepped up to help.
Lawyers team up to provide pro bono support in tragic inquest case
Karen approached Advocate for help on behalf of her partner, Sarah, whose son took his own life. Barristers Sunyana Sharma of 3PB and Markus Findlay of Doughty Street Chambers volunteered to assist at the inquest, with the support of a team of solicitors from Arnold & Porter.
Newsletter archive and signup
Newsletter
We have launched a monthly Advocate Top Ten newsletter! The aim is to create a fun, easy-to-read roundup of news, stories, quotes and shout-outs.