WASHINGTON, DC (October 2, 2026) – Venable LLP has been named a recipient of the 2026 Beacon of Justice Award by the National Legal Aid & Defender Association (NLADA), for its support of the Debtors’ Prison Project, which has a two-part mission: to fight the criminalization of poverty and to stop governments and corporations from treating people impacted by the criminal and immigration systems as revenue sources. The award was presented at the 2026 NLADA Exemplar Awards Gala on September 24.
Presented annually, the Beacon of Justice Award honors law firms that have demonstrated exceptional dedication to protecting democracy and civil society through pro bono advocacy. This year's recipients were recognized for their work advancing justice in such areas as immigration, freedom of speech, domestic violence, and other matters that protect fundamental rights and remove barriers to legal assistance.
"We are honored to be recognized by NLADA with the 2026 Beacon of Justice Award," said W. Warren Hamel, partner and chair of Venable's Pro Bono program. "Pro bono service is central to our firm's culture and reflects our long-standing commitment to using our legal skills to strengthen communities, expand access to justice, and serve those who otherwise might not have access to legal representation. This recognition belongs to the many attorneys and professional staff whose dedication makes that work possible."
"Each year, the Beacon of Justice Awards shine a light on the legal community's unwavering commitment to ensuring justice is accessible to all," said April Fraizer Camara, president and CEO of NLADA. "By honoring law firms for their efforts to protect democracy and civil rights, we celebrate the powerful impact of pro bono advocacy in expanding access to justice, safeguarding fundamental rights, and helping communities thrive across the country."
Venable maintains a robust pro bono program that encourages attorneys and business professionals across the firm to dedicate their time and talents to serving individuals and organizations in need. The firm's work spans a wide range of matters, including civil rights, veterans' advocacy, immigration, housing, family law, nonprofit representation, and other initiatives that strengthen access to justice and support underserved communities.
About Venable LLP
Venable LLP is an American Lawyer Global 100 law firm headquartered in Washington, DC that serves as primary counsel to a worldwide clientele of large and mid-sized organizations, nonprofits, high-net-worth entrepreneurs, and other individuals. With more than 900 professionals in California, Colorado, Delaware, Florida, Illinois, Maryland, New York, Virginia, and Washington, DC, the firm strategically advances its clients' objectives in the United States and around the globe. Venable advises clients on a broad range of business and regulatory law, legislative affairs, complex litigation, and all intellectual property disciplines. For more information, please visit www.Venable.com.