Family Law

Bianca Jackson of Coram Chambers won the Family Law Pro Bono Lawyer of the Year in 2015. Here, she talks about her ongoing commitment to pro bono work and the changes she would make to the profession.

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What was your route into the profession?

Prior to being called to the Bar, I obtained a doctorate in English literature at the University of Oxford and taught there before embarking on the 2-year law degree at the University of Cambridge.

How did you become involved in pro bono work?

My family has a strong tradition of volunteerism and I’ve been involved in pro bono work since I was a teenager, utilising whatever skills I could offer to NGOs. When I qualified as a barrister, it was only natural that I use my law skills to help others.

Why is pro bono work so important in today’s society?

Pro bono work in the legal sector is more important now than it has ever been in light of the cuts to legal aid. In respect of pro bono work generally, we have a responsibility as human beings to help those who need it if we can.