November 10, 2016

In honor of National Pro Bono Week (October 23-29) The Catholic University of America Columbus School of Law celebrated with a variety of exciting events on and off campus. Approximately seventy students took part in the jam packed week that highlighted the mission of legal service providers who fight tirelessly to break down barriers to justice.

To kick start the week, students attended the Washington Council of Lawyers hosted "Hacky Hour," an event where CUA Law students learned how 'legal hackathons' can increase access to justice. Students heard from pioneers in the field of public interest law and technology who create applications that assist the most marginalized fractions of our society.

On Wednesday and Thursday, the CUA Law Pro Bono Program hosted two on campus trainings presented by Kids In Need Of Defense (KIND) and The Washington Legal Clinic for the Homeless. At these trainings, students learned about removal defense for immigrant children and how to advocate for the homeless during the hypothermia season.

To wrap up the week, on Saturday, CUA Law students staffed the Record Sealing and Expungement Fair organized by current 3L evening student, Veda Rasheed. At the fair, individuals were screen by student volunteers for their eligibility for expungement and record sealing and met with attorneys about next step solutions.

Throughout the week, the participating students gained insight into the many ways they can give back through pro bono work. The CUA Law Pro Bono Program coordinates these events to inspire the student body to see what a difference they can make if they take the time to give back.