For over 15 years, Dechert LLP has been a dedicated Pro Bono Partnership law firm partner. The Partnership has worked with hundreds of Dechert attorneys over the years, and we are so grateful for the support of all of our volunteers. Today, we are highlighting a recent accomplishment of just a few of Dechert’s amazing team, and the impact their help has had on our community.
In 2014, Young Women’s Christian Association Bergen County (“YWCA”) reached out to Pro Bono Partnership for help ending a joint venture, the co-ownership of a building. With the help of Suzanne Turner, Chair of Dechert’s pro bono practice, the Partnership arranged for four lawyers from Dechert’s corporate and real estate practices—Jon Rand, Andrew Schaffer, Richard Jones and Fatima Mohammed—to handle the project. Because of the matter’s complexities, the negotiations and eventual sale of the building took nearly four years. The Dechert team invested over 300 hours in the project, and their work enabled the YWCA to continue providing important services in the county.
After the matter was completed, YWCA’s CEO, Helen Archontou, wrote to thank the volunteer lawyers for their service: “Without your tremendous volunteer effort and Pro Bono Partnership connecting us, we never could have negotiated this sale… Although I know you handle much larger and more complicated transactions than this one, I also know that this one was not headache-free. Thank you for navigating us through all the challenges so expertly.”
A heartfelt “THANK YOU!” to Jon, Andrew, Richard, Fatima, and everyone at Dechert who supported their efforts. The YWCA is stronger, and Bergen County is a better place to live and work because of your service.