Law Firm Pro Bono Award: Robinson Bradshaw
The Law Firm Pro Bono Award recognizes law firms for their commitment to pro bono service through the contribution of pro bono hours, the percentage of billable hours devoted to pro bono work, the number and percentage of firm attorneys providing pro bono legal service, the firm’s creative approach to pro bono engagement, the consistency and sincerity of its pro bono program and the presence of a law firm culture that is grounded in the observance of Rule 6.1 (Voluntary Pro Bono Publico Service) of the Rules of Professional Conduct.
Robinson Bradshaw provides pro bono services to individuals and organizations that assist underserved populations, including matters referred by Legal Aid of North Carolina, the NC Justice Center, Charlotte Center for Legal Advocacy, Charlotte Legal Initiative to Mobilize Businesses (CLIMB) and the Council for Children’s Rights. Lawyers at the firm also provide pro bono assistance to nonprofit charitable organizations in the community.
A team of Robinson Bradshaw attorneys recently represented nonprofit Oak Meadows Community Association in an appeal from the NC Property Tax Commission to the NC Court of Appeals. The Property Tax Commission found that Oak Meadows was not entitled to a tax exemption that applies to real property owned by nonprofits that provide housing to low- and moderate-income individuals and families.
Attorneys Emily Schultz and Curtis Strubinger agreed to take on this representation. Mr. Strubinger provided deep knowledge of taxation and Ms. Schultz led the team. Other RBH attorneys contributing to the representation include Emma Perry, Tim Misner, and Hunter Bruton. They spent countless hours prosecuting the appeal. The Court affirmed the Property Tax Commission, but regardless of the outcome, Ms. Schultz and colleagues have provided distinguished service on behalf of the public that has earned the gratitude of Oak Meadows residents.