ROSELAND, NJ (August 7, 2012) - In the New Jersey Law Journal’s ranking of the state’s top law firms’ Pro Bono activity, Connell Foley has risen to secure a position as #7 on the list of Top 20 firms. The ranking evaluated a number of factors including total number of hours, the number of hours per attorney, and how many attorneys engaged in more than 20 hours. Connell Foley reported its lawyers contributed 8,805 hours in pro bono service, with 24 of its attorneys averaging over 20 hours during the year.
Pro Bono Committee Chairman Marc D. Haefner is particularly enthusiastic about Connell Foley’s continued progress and references additional controls instituted within the firm that has allowed for more accurate capture and recording of pro bono activity. He also detailed the additional incentives the firm has created, that support individual lawyers’ engagement in pro bono work while receiving credit toward earned bonuses. “This accomplishment shows our true commitment to our pro bono program and to our staff. We’re pleased to make it possible for Connell Foley attorneys to continue to serve others in need in the areas where we work and live,” said Haefner. “The proof of our success has been affirmed by our numbers, and determined to keep growing.”
Connell Foley associate Jennifer C. Critchley, who has been with Connell Foley since 2003 and focuses her practice in commercial litigation in both federal and state courts of New Jersey, was among the attorneys noted in the article for her activity on a case involving a state prisoner’s Section 1983 suit; she reported logging over 200 hours on this matter.
A wide range of charitable organizations and efforts benefit from the support of Connell Foley and its attorneys on an ongoing basis during the year, ranging from after-school programs to mentoring and youth education programs. In 2011, Connell Foley established an Endowment Scholarship at Seton Hall University School of Law to provide needed financial support to talented students of diverse racial and socioeconomic backgrounds who wish to pursue a legal career.
On learning of the New Jersey Law Journal ranking, Managing Partner Michael X. McBride stated, “We’re proud that our lawyers are recognized for more than their significant accomplishments in the courts and that we are known for our contributions to public service and support of worthwhile causes. Each member of our staff is fully engaged in ensuring we meet firm wide pro bono goals. For us, this recognition is affirmation of our dedication to community and to our core values.”
Visit the Connell Foley Pro Bono page, to learn more about our activities.