Debevoise & Plimpton LLP is part of a group of ten leading law firms whose collaboration in the Domestic Abuse Response Alliance (“DARA”) has won the Local Impact Award at the annual PILnet forum’s Global Awards. PILnet is an international NGO that serves as a global network for public interest law.

PILnet’s Global Awards celebrate and honour the extraordinary efforts made by individuals, law firms, and NGOs to strengthen civil society, advance social justice, and protect the public interest around the world. The award winner is chosen by the annual forum participants of private practice lawyers, local Bar associations, NGOs, and in-house sectors.

The Local Impact Award recognises the best, innovative pro bono legal project with an impact felt at the local or national level.

Launched in February 2022, DARA was originally an alliance of seven firms which has now grown to ten, who provide pro bono legal advice and representation to survivors of domestic abuse in need of protective injunctions. The firms involved represent individuals who are not eligible for legal aid but who cannot afford to pay for private representation, providing them with help, support and representation from the outset to the conclusion of their case. DARA also seeks to inform policy to promote justice in domestic violence cases (see more detail here).

Since the firm’s founding in 1931, Debevoise’s pro bono work has been central to its culture. The firm focuses on helping underserved and vulnerable communities tackle social problems and solve complex legal issues.