Debevoise & Plimpton LLP has been named a pro bono honoree by Immigration Equality. In announcing their annual Safe Haven Awards, the organization noted that this year’s honorees “have demonstrated exemplary support for Immigration Equality and our clients. They have gone above and beyond to ensure LGBTQ and HIV-positive immigrants are empowered and protected.

For over 20 years, Immigration Equality has worked to provide free direct legal services to LGBTQ+ and HIV-positive immigrants. The organization manages thousands of cases every year, aiding those seeking refuge, fair treatment and freedom in the United States. It is a crime in nearly 80 countries around the world to identify as LGBTQ+. As of last summer, Immigration Equality, with the help of its pro bono partners, secured its 1,000th victory. The organization currently represents 650 individuals and families across the nation.

Debevoise has been representing clients referred by Immigration Equality since 2004. In that time, more than 100 Debevoise lawyers and staff have had the privilege of helping these clients find sanctuary in the United States after facing danger and oppression in their home countries. In 2017 alone, three of Debevoise’s clients were granted asylum-one in an affirmative grant and two as a defense in their removal proceedings.

Debevoise lawyers have been dedicated to public service since the firm was founded in 1931. Pro bono legal service is a fundamental part of the firm’s identity and is critically important to those whom the firm assists. In 2017 alone, Debevoise attorneys completed 51,788 hours of pro bono work.

The firm is also committed to protecting the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals. In 2017, for the ninth consecutive year, Debevoise received a perfect score for “Best Places to Work for LGBT Equality” by the Human Rights Campaign Foundation’s Corporate Equality Index.

Debevoise & Plimpton is a premier law firm with market-leading practices, a global perspective and strong New York roots. We deliver effective solutions to our clients’ most important legal challenges, applying clear commercial judgment and a distinctively collaborative approach.