Envisioning the Future of Justice

When I started law school in Colombia I was convinced that with legal knowledge and use of legal tools I would be able to help people; improve the quality of life for those in vulnerable conditions; and contribute to a better world. During the first year of my studies, I thought that the concept of justice beyond the resolutions of civil and commercial law disputes had been forgotten. All I saw were lawyers advocating for the interests of the wealthy instead of studying and contributing to the spread of justice. The idea of building a better world appeared to be a utopia, something that in “real life” would never work.

Discouraged with this “reality,” I began thinking I would not be able to dedicate my legal career to helping those who need it most. But then, a little light started to shine through and I had the opportunity to work with Fundacion Pro Bono Colombia. I discovered the concept of social justice has not been forgotten, that the provision of pro bono legal services was still a possibility and that there were organizations and law firms dedicated to making this a reality.

When I first heard about the opportunity to intern with New Perimeter at DLA Piper I realized that it was the best chance to expand my knowledge about pro bono and a unique opportunity to explore a reality that I thought did not exist. I applied convinced that it would be a wonderful experience for my professional life, however very nervous as my English was not perfect. A few weeks after the final interview with New Perimeter´s team I received the greatest new of my life: I was selected to intern with New Perimeter, DLA Piper´s global pro bono initiative.

As I thought, being at DLA Piper and working with New Perimeter´s team was a delightful and enriching experience. I never imagined that it would be possible to help work on pro bono projects at an international level, and that these projects would focus on access to justice, the protection of human rights and the furtherance of social and economic development. The commitment and good will of New Perimeter’s staff and DLA Piper lawyers is admirable. I found that they firmly believe that the law can be a tool for social change, an opportunity to bring hope to vulnerable communities, a professional exercise to bridge the social gap and ensure the rule of law. I am so glad that I had the chance to meet and work with people such as Kristen, Lisa, Sara, Theresa, Maureen, Lorraine, Carolyn and Margot, who besides teaching and guiding me in a professional field, made me feel at home with their kindness.

During my summer internship in the Washington, DC office, I attended multiple events hosted by organizations committed to the public interest where I found that there are many professionals, not just lawyers, that work on pro bono projects to promote the rule of the law, access to justice, strengthening of democracy and transparency, and sustainable development. The opportunity to attend these events gave me hope and helped me understand that no matter what people say about pro bono, it truly works, not only in the US but around the world. I know that I want to dedicate my life and professional practice to ensuring access of justice and human rights through pro bono work, especially in my country. It may not be easy, but as the years go by the positive results will shine through.