At Morvillo Abramowitz Grand Iason & Anello P.C., our pursuit of justice extends beyond the courtroom. We use our trial skills and the experience of our attorneys—many of whom have served as federal and state prosecutors and public servants—to promote fairness and equal access to legal representation through pro bono representation in both civil and criminal matters.
The firm regularly serves as court-appointed counsel through the federal Criminal Justice Act (CJA) panels for the Southern District of New York and the Second Circuit, representing individuals who cannot afford counsel in federal criminal prosecutions involving offenses such as bank robbery, narcotics trafficking, immigration violations, theft, and conspiracy. In addition to federal criminal matters, the firm represents individuals, nonprofit organizations, and community groups in civil rights and public-interest matters involving constitutional law, education, prisoners’ rights, sexual abuse and misconduct, and initiatives advancing racial justice, disability rights, and equal opportunity.
Recent Pro Bono Matters
Our attorneys bring the firm’s trial experience to high-stakes pro bono matters that have produced meaningful results for individuals, communities, and the public at large. Recent matters include:
- Goldenberg v. Metropolitan Transportation Authority. The firm successfully represented plaintiffs in litigation against the Metropolitan Transportation Authority concerning dangerous platform gaps that led to passengers falling between subway platforms and trains. The litigation resulted in significant safety improvements to better protect the millions of New Yorkers and visitors who rely on the city’s transit system each year.
- Tao v. University of Kansas. The firm received a 2025 Outstanding Pro Bono Service Award from the Chinese American Legal Defense Alliance (CALDA) for its representation of a tenured University of Kansas professor who was arrested and prosecuted by the University under the so-called “China Initiative.” All criminal charges were ultimately dropped or dismissed.
- Saada v. Golan. The firm represented a child for four years in a widely followed case involving the Hague Convention and the grave risk of harm to children who witness domestic violence. In 2022, Karen King argued before the U.S. Supreme Court, securing a unanimous decision in her client’s favor.
Pro bono service is an important part of the firm’s culture. Our attorneys are encouraged to pursue meaningful opportunities that leverage the firm’s trial experience to serve individuals and organizations in need. Associates gain valuable courtroom experience through pro bono matters, including opportunities to argue appeals, examine witnesses, and develop as advocates under the guidance of experienced trial lawyers.
Partnerships That Strengthen Communities
We believe lasting impact is achieved through collaboration. The firm has built longstanding relationships with leading public-interest organizations and advocacy groups committed to expanding access to justice and supporting underserved communities.
Our attorneys work closely with:
- The Legal Aid Society, through longstanding involvement and pro bono service supporting individuals in need of legal representation;
- New York Legal Assistance Group (NYLAG), advancing access to legal services for vulnerable New Yorkers;
- New York Lawyers for the Public Interest (NYLPI), supporting advocacy efforts involving disability rights, environmental justice, and access to essential public services;
- Legal Outreach, Mobilization for Justice, and Sanctuary for Families, through financial support and pro bono assistance addressing critical legal and social needs.
Our attorneys have also collaborated with organizations including the Brennan Center for Justice and the Center for Reproductive Rights on amicus curiae briefs addressing issues of significant public importance. The firm is a member of the Law Firm Antiracism Alliance, reflecting our continued commitment to advancing racial equity within the legal profession and beyond.
The firm’s dedication to pro bono service has been recognized by The Legal Aid Society through honors for outstanding pro bono service and its Pro Bono Publico Award. The firm and its attorneys have also received the Federal Bar Council’s Thurgood Marshall Award, Sanctuary for Families’ Abely Pro Bono Leadership Award, and the National Asian Pacific American Bar Association’s Pro Bono Award. These honors reflect our longstanding commitment to expanding access to justice, strengthening communities, and using our advocacy skills in service of the public interest.
For inquiries regarding pro bono representation, please contact the ProBonoCommittee@maglaw.com.