Many pro bono cases involve a lawyer coming to the urgent aid of an individual who is suffering because they cannot access justice. Sometimes, however the lawyer is able to help on a more long term basis. This case study is an exceptional example of the latter.
In response to the cultural destruction of the Second World War, The International Institute for the Conservation of Historical and Artistic Works (IIC) was formed with the help of Slaughter and May. Since 1950, the law firm has advised on structural changes, contracts, intellectual property, employment and governance matters, as well as supporting international conferences – all in a pro bono capacity.
Helen Griffiths, one of the IIC’s trustees said: “Slaughter and May’s continuing pro bono assistance has enabled IIC to respond flexibly to the changing world in which it has operated for over seventy years. Organisational changes and new relationships and initiatives have been implemented and more effective international reach have been achieved without the need to divert significant resources from IIC’s core purpose.”
This pro bono support has made a cultural contribution and facilitated the conservation of art, culture and history as Slaughter and May continue to work with IILC internationally to build capacity in the sector, to ensure best practice and to advocate for conservation.