By Catherine Wiersch
The practice of law can be demanding, often marked by long hours, high stakes, and constant pressure. One surprising antidote to this stress is volunteering pro bono. While it benefits the community, it also provides meaningful mental health rewards for lawyers themselves.
Pro bono work reconnects lawyers with the core values that likely drew them to the profession in the first place—justice, fairness, and service. In contrast to billable hours and adversarial battles, pro bono cases often provide a chance to make a direct, positive impact in someone’s life. This sense of purpose can reduce burnout, restore perspective, and rekindle professional pride.
Pro bono attorneys frequently express deep gratitude, and that human connection counteracts the isolation many lawyers feel in their day-to-day practice. In particular, helping vulnerable populations also builds empathy, reminding attorneys that their skills are powerful tools for good beyond the courtroom.
Finally, volunteering fosters community with other service-minded lawyers, strengthening networks of support. These connections can combat loneliness and promote resilience.
Pro bono work is more than a professional obligation; it’s a path to greater fulfillment. By giving time and expertise to those in need, lawyers nourish both their communities and their own well-being.
About the author
Catherine Wiersch is a Deputy Public Defender with the Clark County Public Defender’s Office focusing on civil commitments and assisted outpatient treatment programs. She’s been at the Public Defender’s office for eight years after graduating from the University of Dayton in 2018. Catherine enjoys giving back to the community. She volunteers on the CCBA’s New Lawyer committee and Community Service committee. She helps the community by taking pro bono cases from the Legal Aid Center of Southern Nevada and the Senior Law Program.
About the article
This article was originally published in the Communiqué (Nov. 2025), the official publication of the Clark County Bar Association. See https://clarkcountybar.org/about/member-benefits/communique-2025/communique-nov-2025/. The printed magazine will be mailed out to CCBA members on October 30, 2025.
The articles and advertisements appearing in Communiqué magazine do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the CCBA, the CCBA Publications Committee, the editorial board, or the other authors. All legal and other issues discussed are not for the purpose of answering specific legal questions. Attorneys and others are strongly advised to independently research all issues.
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