South Africa’s pro bono legal services is taking a bold digital leap with the launch of a groundbreaking online solution.

Empire Partner Foundation (EPF) has developed a modern digital case management solution for ProBono.Org.

ProBono.org has highlighted that digitising case management will enable the company to expand its services and reach.

“By digitising case management, the technology allows ProBono.Org to broaden its reach, address structural impediments, and provide crucial legal support to underserved areas.”

The company also stated that the newly designed platform will enhance ProBono.Org’s operations by improving case management, client tracking, and enabling real-time monitoring of legal assistance.

This advancement has allowed thousands of people to access legal support or have their cases heard in court, reinforcing the organisation’s mission to ensure justice for all.

Established in 2006, ProBono.Org has acted as a vital bridge connecting vulnerable and destitute individuals with legal practitioners to address civil matters like divorces, deceased estate disputes, and labour issues.

Before this digital innovation, ProBono.Org was already making an impact with its 535 legal practitioners, handling 5,037 cases. However, the demand for legal aid was far greater, requiring more resources. That’s when EPF stepped in, enabling ProBono.Org to access a network of 41,000 legal practitioners, each committing 40 pro bono hours annually.

Thanks to this partnership, clients can now submit their cases anytime, from anywhere, making legal assistance more accessible and efficient.

Advocate Mohamed Shafie Ameermia, National Director of ProBono.Org, emphasised the value of this partnership, noting that the digital platform will significantly strengthen their capacity to provide legal support to those in need.

“This partnership with EPF represents a new chapter for ProBono.Org. The digital platform will significantly enhance our ability to connect those in need with the legal support they deserve, making justice more inclusive and impactful.”

Joanna Govender, CEO of EPF, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the significance of the technological advancement of the partnership.

“Access to justice is a fundamental human right, and technology serves as a powerful tool in dismantling barriers. Through this solution, we aim to support ProBono.Org’s mission of making legal services accessible to all, regardless of their socioeconomic status.”

Both EPF and ProBono.Org acknowledged that the digital platform might pose a challenge for those without internet access or digital literacy. To address this, they have introduced outreach programmes and support services to ensure inclusivity.

The Star

masabata.mkwananzi@inl.co.za