Each October, legal organizations across the country come together for the National Celebration of Pro Bono, recognizing the lawyers and firms who give their time and expertise to serve those most in need.

This year’s celebration, held October 19–25, 2025, highlights the theme “Supporting Communities Through Pro Bono Work.” Since 2009, the initiative has honored attorneys whose volunteer service strengthens access to justice—reminding us that pro bono work is both a professional responsibility and a profound act of community care.

At the Indiana Innocence Project, our work to free the innocent depends on a powerful network of pro bono partners who dedicate their skills to investigating complex cases, litigating appeals, and advocating for systemic change. Their contributions restore lives and ensure that every voice is heard in the pursuit of justice.

During #CelebrateProBono Week, we’re proud to honor two remarkable members of our legal community—Scott Montross of Montross Miller and Carl Pebworth of Faegre Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP—whose service exemplifies the power of pro bono advocacy.

Scott Montross, a practicing attorney for over 50 years and partner at Montross Miller, has devoted his career to helping others through personal injury law, landmark legal decisions, and volunteer initiatives supporting individuals with developmental disabilities. His decades of legal expertise and compassionate service have made a lasting impact across Indiana. Scott serves on the INIP Board of Directors.

Similarly, Carl Pebworth’s commitment to justice has elevated access to legal services statewide. In 2022, Carl was honored by the Indiana Bar Foundation with Pro Bono Indiana’s Randall T. Shepard Award for Excellence for his outstanding leadership and advocacy on behalf of those in need.

Together, Scott, Carl, and countless pro bono attorneys across the state remind us that service is at the heart of justice. To every lawyer who gives their time to this cause: thank you. Your dedication makes freedom possible for the wrongfully convicted and brings us one step closer to a fairer, more equitable system for all.