Proskauer Welcomes William C. Silverman as a Partner to Lead the Firm’s Pro Bono Efforts

International law firm Proskauer is pleased to announce the arrival of William C. Silverman as a partner who will spearhead the firm’s global pro bono efforts. Mr. Silverman is the firm’s first partner-level lawyer who will lead the pro bono practice on a full-time basis.

In his new position, Mr. Silverman, who has significant pro bono as well as extensive private and public sector experience in both the criminal and civil areas, will be responsible for identifying and securing pro bono opportunities and partnerships for Proskauer lawyers, ensuring widespread participation in these projects and ensuring that the pro bono work is performed at the highest level.

“Bill’s robust history of public service will deepen our ability to serve our pro bono clients, help attract interesting new matters to be handled by all of our lawyers in all of our departments and 13 worldwide offices, and have a greater impact on our communities,” said Michael A. Cardozo, litigation partner who oversees Proskauer’s pro bono program. “We are excited to add Bill to our ranks, not only for his strong credentials, but also for his demonstrated creativity, compassion and dedication to pro bono efforts.”

Mr. Silverman noted, “I am thrilled to join Proskauer and its longstanding tradition of serving the public interest and giving back to the community. I consider this position to be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. With the support and resources of the firm, we can make a significant impact on the lives of those who desperately need legal assistance.”

Throughout his career, Mr. Silverman has dedicated himself to the promotion of equal access to justice through pro bono service, particularly in the areas of family court, anti-trafficking and unaccompanied minors in immigration proceedings. Mr. Silverman, a former federal prosecutor, oversaw the global pro bono program and fellowship foundation at his prior firm, Greenberg Traurig. His public service work includes spearheading the New York City Family Court Volunteer Attorney Program, as well as serving as counsel to the New York State Anti-Trafficking Coalition.

Proskauer Chairman Joseph Leccese said, “We have a vibrant pro bono practice that is continually evolving to reflect the changing needs of our society. With Bill at the helm, we will have an opportunity to make an even greater impact on the communities in which we live and work, and to offer our lawyers even more pro bono opportunities where they can make a difference in people’s lives and at the same time gain valuable legal experience.”

Throughout Proskauer’s history, its lawyers have dedicated themselves to improving the community and providing assistance to people in need. Lawyers at every level of experience in each office and practice group make a difference by contributing their talents to providing pro bono legal services. Proskauer lawyers handle hundreds of pro bono matters covering issues such as civil rights, international human rights, child advocacy, special education, access to public benefits, asylum, landlord-tenant matters and the representation of numerous nonprofit organizations.

Mr. Silverman received his J.D. from New York University School of Law and his B.A. from Brown University. He served as an assistant U.S. attorney for the Southern District of New York from 1997 to 2002, and also clerked for the Honorable Louis L. Stanton of the Southern District of New York from 1992 to 1994.

About Proskauer

Proskauer is an international law firm recognized for its excellence both in practicing law and serving clients. We are trusted advisors to many of the world’s top companies, financial institutions, investment funds, nonprofit institutions, governmental entities and other organizations across industries and borders. With 700+ lawyers in 13 offices and approximately 50 areas of practice, we have the capabilities, experience and creativity to guide our clients through their most important legal and business challenges. Additional information about the firm can be found at www.proskauer.com.

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