Hello!

As we close out the year, we’re reflecting on what it means to stand for justice—and on the role each of us plays in ensuring equal access to legal help across Illinois.

This season is both a moment of gratitude and a moment of responsibility. As legal needs continue to grow, PILI’s work depends on the collective support of a community committed to service. Your year-end gift helps sustain the people and programs that connect legal help to those who need it most.

In this issue, we share highlights from a meaningful close to the year, including reflections from our Annual Awards Luncheon, the release of our 2025 Impact Brief, and opportunities to stay engaged through upcoming convenings and programs in the year ahead.

Thank you for being part of PILI’s community and for helping carry this work forward.

Sincerely,

The Staff at PILI

On December 10th, nearly 450 members of the Illinois legal community gathered together to celebrate the very best aspects of the legal profession. Thank you to all who joined us to celebrate PILI and our work to make equal access to justice a reality.

Thanks to the support of 50 law firms, corporations and law school sponsors as well as individual donors and supporters, we raised almost $250,000 through the event to support PILI’s work to engage, inspire and empower those advancing equal access to justice.

Read more and check out the photo album from the event »

News & Updates

Support PILI with a Year End Gift
PILI’s year-end appeal invites our community to Stand for Justice by supporting the people and programs that make equal access to legal help possible across Illinois. As legal needs grow and too many Illinoisans still face threats to their housing, safety, and well-being, your gift ensures that justice is not left to chance but extended to those who need it most. Please consider making a year-end contribution to support PILI and our work. Read more »

Upcoming Legal Service Agency PILI Roundtable & Illinois Forum on Pro Bono

In early 2026, PILI will convene legal service providers and pro bono leaders from across Illinois for two upcoming programs focused on collaboration, shared learning, and strengthening pro bono service statewide. The Legal Service Agency Roundtable will take place on February 18, 2026, followed by the Illinois Forum on Pro Bono on March 31, 2026. Advance registration is required for both complimentary programs, and Illinois MCLE credit is anticipated. Read more »

PILI Releases 2025 Impact Brief Showcasing Stories, Highlights, and Milestones

PILI is proud to share our 2025 Impact Brief, a snapshot of the people, programs, and partnerships that advanced equal access to justice across Illinois this year. The brief highlights key data, program accomplishments, and the collective efforts of our statewide community. Read more »

Law Student Internship & Graduate Fellowship Application System is Open

Agencies are still hiring Law Student Interns for Spring Semester 2026. 2L and 1L law students can also apply for Summer 2026 Law Student Internships. And those interested in Graduate Fellowships next summer can apply now as well. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis until all agencies have completed their hiring.  Read more »

Other Upcoming Programs & Events

• February 5th - Twentieth Circuit Illinois Free Legal Answers Workshop & Happy Hour
• February 18th - Legal Service Agency Roundtable
• March 31st - PILI Illinois Forum on Pro Bono
• April 8th - Arcade for Legal Aid
• June 24th - Annual Pro Bono Reception