New York, United States
PILnet is a pioneering initiative that strives to make law accessible to all, especially the underprivileged and unrepresented. By equipping public interest lawyers with innovative tools and strategies, and fostering networks of pro bono lawyers, PILnet is committed to realizing its mission of leveraging the power of law to serve those in need.
Traditionally, law has been an instrument of state authority, but today, much of that influence has shifted to private sector entities. While public interest lawyers have effectively harnessed the law to challenge power dynamics, corporations and affluent individuals have leveraged a different set of legal skills to manage risks. PILnet aims to bridge this gap by empowering public interest advocates through forums, fellowships, and trainings, thereby establishing a new cohort of advocates dedicated to driving positive social transformations.
PILnet's distinctive approach complements conventional rights-based strategies by engaging the global legal profession as a public interest law and pro bono network. As a strategic intermediary between the public and private sectors, PILnet facilitates collaborations between NGOs and corporate lawyers to address evolving concerns and systemic issues. This collaboration not only ensures that NGOs receive high-quality, pro bono legal aid but also exposes them to a range of specialized legal support, ultimately contributing to the resilience of societies. In 2017, PILnet offered direct legal services valued at $3,705,000 to over 200 NGOs, engaging 50 law firms through its clearinghouses, annual Forums, strategic convenings, and specialized projects. At PILnet's 2017 Global Forum, 340 participants from 48 countries convened to focus on reclaiming law as a force for good.
Founded in 1997, PILnet operates in the Legal Tech sector, positioning itself as a critical player in reshaping the legal landscape to address societal needs and evolutions. While precise headquarters and recent investment details are not available, PILnet's impactful efforts and focus on empowering the legal community are evidently shaping the contours of the legal industry and driving positive societal change.
