Farrer & Co hires Rhian Lewis to spearhead pro bono services

Leading law firm Farrer & Co has announced the appointment of Rhian Lewis as Head of Pro Bono and Counsel. She joins Farrer & Co from Hogan Lovells, where her practice focused on pro bono and international human rights law. Rhian was previously a finalist for the UK in the United Nations GC SDG Pioneer Awards, and has specialised in advocating for effective remedies for victims of human trafficking and modern slavery.

In her newly created role, Rhian will practise solely in a pro bono capacity, working with the firm’s Responsible Business Partner and the Board to create an overarching pro bono strategy.  Rhian will be responsible for overseeing all ongoing pro bono activity around the firm.  

Throughout its long history, Farrer & Co has engaged in a wide range of social value and pro bono work, such as its pioneering work with safeguarding and child protection, its market-leading place-making work, helping to create vibrant and resilient communities and centuries of experience with philanthropy and charity law. Rhian’s arrival coincides with the introduction of a new firm policy whereby chargeable hours targets will include an element of qualifying pro bono hours.

Alexandra Hollingshead, Responsible Business Partner at Farrer & Co, said: “As a firm, we have always deeply valued our engagement with causes and organisations that support the world around us, and so we are hugely proud to be investing so heavily in our pro bono practice.”

“Rhian’s arrival marks an evolution in our Responsible Business strategy and provides the opportunity to bring material positive change to individuals and communities in need, and to serve the firm’s purpose and commitment to tangible social value action. We are delighted to welcome Rhian to the firm and are confident that our pro bono clients will benefit hugely from her unique expertise in this area.”

Rhian Lewis said: “Farrer & Co has a wealth of experience across diverse practices which provides an ideal springboard for a thriving pro bono offering. I am excited to work with my new colleagues to help maximise the impact of existing pro bono initiatives and identify new causes that might benefit from our support.”

© Farrer & Co LLP, May 2024