Technology Critical to Providing Pro Bono Services During COVID-19

As social distancing and working remotely impacts our daily lives, Shook attorneys continue to connect with clients across the country providing pro bono legal services. Shook provides approximately 30,000 hours of free legal services annually to communities throughout the United States. 

“The COVID-19 pandemic has really shifted the way we maintain these bonds with our client,” said Associate KaSandra Rogiers, who works in product liability litigation. “Fortunately, technology has helped us maintain connections with our clients and our legal teams.” 

Rogiers provides pro bono services as a volunteer attorney at the Support Center for Child Advocates in Philadelphia, which provides legal assistance and social service advocacy for abused and neglected children. According to Rogiers, smartphone capabilities have allowed her and her client to stay in contact during the quarantine. 

“We continue to await updates from individual judges as to how future hearings will be held,” said Rogiers. “In the meantime, we meet with our clients and case workers over Wi-Fi to communicate and encourage them.” 

Stay-at-home orders haven’t decreased the need for pro bono representation across the country. According to Rogiers, an additional organization recently reached out requesting assistance for a low-income client in navigating a legal issue. 

“This work is near and dear to my heart,” said Rogiers.

Update - Since we first published this story in April, the Support Center for Child Advocates in Philadelphia has selected Shook attorney KaSandra Rogiers to join its board of directors.