Working with vulnerable clients is an integral part of pro bono legal practice. However, it can also present significant challenges, particularly in relation to vicarious trauma – the emotional toll that comes from supporting clients in distressing situations.

We are committed to helping pro bono lawyers and staff at pro bono charities navigate the challenges of working with vulnerable clients by providing both emotional support and practical tools.

Our current focus is on developing specialised, trauma-sensitive practices and strategies that equip both pro bono lawyers and staff working at pro bono charities to manage their wellbeing while delivering compassionate, effective services to vulnerable clients.

We collaborate with Trauma Informed Law to deliver high-impact training designed to support lawyers who are working with vulnerable clients, especially those who may be dealing with trauma. This four-part series focuses on trauma-informed practice and practical strategies to strengthen lawyer wellbeing and client-sensitive legal skills.

Key Areas of Focus

Topics covered in our training include:

Lawyer–Client Dynamics, Self-Awareness and Stress Management

• How your own wellbeing, self-awareness, and stress responses can impact your work with clients in distress.
• Practical strategies for managing vicarious trauma, recognising stress in yourself and others, and and protecting your emotional health in challenging environments.

Trauma-Informed Communication

• Techniques and language tips for working effectively with clients in distress.
• Creating safe, predictable interactions through clear communication.

Managing Expectations and Empowering Clients

• Balancing compassion with realistic boundaries.
• Breaking down legal processes into accessible, understandable steps.

Practical Adaptations for Lawyers

• Trauma-sensitive adjustments to client interactions that support both lawyers and clients.
• How to stay effective without overextending yourself.

This initiative is part of our long-term commitment to improving the wellbeing of pro bono lawyers and ensuring that vulnerable clients receive the best possible legal support.

We aim to build a culture of support and self-awareness across the pro bono sector – helping lawyers maintain their own wellbeing while delivering exceptional legal pro bono help to those who need it most.

Through this work, we hope to improve not only the legal experience for clients but also support the mental and emotional resilience of the professionals who help them through legal pro bono.

If you’d like to learn more or get involved in this area of our work, please contact us.