Innovative and active engagement in pro bono is a hallmark of Winston & Strawn and we have a longstanding commitment to excellence in serving the public interest.

Winston was among the first law firms to implement essential, foundational pro bono initiatives, which include:

• Establishing a pro bono committee in 1984
• Adopting a written pro bono policy in 1991
• Becoming one of 45 signatory firms to the Pro Bono Institute’s Law Firm Pro Bono Challenge in 1993
• Hiring a full-time pro bono counsel in 2002

Today, Winston’s pro bono practice is managed by a dedicated team of five full-time attorneys.

A critical component of the firm’s commitment to pro bono excellence is senior management’s expectation for every lawyer and paralegal to devote at least 35 hours to pro bono service each year. Winston also allows associates to count 100 hours towards their annual billable hours goal and unlimited credit towards a high hours bonus.

For the past six years, Winston has ranked as a top 15 firm on The American Lawyer Pro Bono Scorecard. In 2024, 97% of lawyers contributed 20 hours of pro bono service. Firmwide, Winston attorneys and business professionals devoted 67,000+ hours to pro bono matters.

Winston’s Pro Bono Committee is comprised of partners, associates, and business professionals throughout the firm who are committed to excellence in serving the public interest.