July 25, 2025

In an unprecedented mobilization of solo practitioners and small law firms, the legal landscape is witnessing the rise of a formidable force aimed at challenging what they perceive as detrimental legal policies enacted by the Trump administration. Dubbed the Pro Bono Litigation Corps, this initiative is spearheaded by Lawyers for Good Government, a nonprofit organization dedicated to upholding democratic values through legal advocacy.
Michael H. Ansell, a solo practitioner from Morristown, New Jersey, expressed a sentiment resonating among his peers, highlighting their critical role in this battle. "I don’t know if the administration knew how many little guys are out there… We’re the last line of defense, it seems," Ansell told the New York Times. His comments shed light on the collective resolve of smaller legal entities to assert their influence in safeguarding civil liberties and ensuring governmental accountability.
The New York Times describes the Pro Bono Litigation Corps as "an army of solo practitioners, former government litigators, and small law firms." This diverse group of legal professionals is banding together, pooling their resources and expertise to confront and counteract policies they argue undermine justice and fairness. The initiative not only represents a significant shift in how legal battles against government policies are fought but also underscores the increasing importance of grassroots movements in the legal sector.
The formation of this corps is a testament to the power of collective action. It amplifies the impact that small firms and independent lawyers can have when united by a common cause. Their readiness to engage in pro bono work to challenge the administration’s policies highlights a dedication not just to their clients but to the broader principle of justice for all.
For those interested in supporting or learning more about the Pro Bono Litigation Corps, information is available through the Lawyers for Good Government website. Here, individuals and firms can find out how to contribute to the legal resistance, whether through direct involvement or by providing financial support to sustain these critical efforts.
As this legal army continues to grow, its influence serves as a reminder of the significant role that the legal community plays in shaping public policy and protecting individual rights. The commitment displayed by these lawyers from smaller practices and solo backgrounds is not just a reaction to specific policies but a staunch defense of democratic principles and the rule of law.