USAID Supports the Second National Pro Bono Awards Ceremony

USAID Supports the Second National Pro Bono Awards Ceremony
“This is the second ceremony for acknowledging true professionals for whom pro bono services is both a social position and a call of the soul and heart,” said Ms. Inna Topal, LEP project Director.
USAID Access to Justice and Legal Empowerment Project (LEP)
“This is the second ceremony for acknowledging true professionals for whom pro bono services is both a social position and a call of the soul and heart,” said Ms. Inna Topal, LEP project Director. “Today we thank Ukrainian lawyers for their sincere desire and strong commitment to provide free legal services and help low-income citizens.”

The United States Agency for International Development’s Access to Justice and Legal Empowerment Project (LEP) - Pravova Krayina - held its Second National Awards Ceremony today to recognize Ukrainian lawyers and law firms that have demonstrated a strong commitment to providing free legal services to those in need. Vadym Halaychuk, the managing partner of the Moore & Associates law firm, and Serhiy Antonov, Director of the international law firm, Center for Medical and Pharmaceutical Law were honored this year.

In his opening address, USAID Regional Mission Director to Ukraine E. Jed Barton emphasized the importance having free legal aid broadly available to ensure equal access to justice as a fundamental right of every person. He also stressed the importance of developing pro bono services as an integral part of the legal profession.

“In Ukraine, according to the results of independent surveys, more than 50 percent of citizens are not able to pay for high-quality legal services,’” noted Mr. Barton. “It is therefore very important that lawyers in Ukraine have the appropriate knowledge, skills and high professional standards for the development of a pro bono culture and are willing to share their experience and time to change people’s lives for the better.”