From October 27th to 31st, we are celebrating Pro Bono Week!
In 2025, more than 60 volunteers from 11 firms and law schools have helped power our work with renters facing housing-related challenges. We are so grateful for their commitment to renters’ rights and for their willingness to give back despite their busy schedules. We could not do what we do without them!
In celebration of our esteemed volunteers, we sat down with LCBH volunteer and Ambassadors Board member, Scott Goehring, from Katten to discuss his pro bono experience and motivation for working with LCBH.
What inspired you to start doing pro bono work, and how did you first get connected with LCBH?
I had a wonderful experience as a PILI Summer Fellow with Legal Aid Chicago’s Housing Practice Group the summer after I graduated from law school. I gained appreciation for the challenges Chicago tenants face just trying to maintain safe, decent housing in the face of unwarranted evictions, conditions issues, and unfair terminations of rental assistance. I have continued to encounter clients facing issues with their landlords through a monthly community legal clinic my firm sponsors. I was looking for a way to stay involved in housing advocacy work and was so pleased to find LCBH.
What drew you to housing justice or tenants’ rights work specifically?
Housing is so fundamental to building happy, productive lives for ourselves and our families. Without a safe place to prepare a meal, help the kids with their homework, or get a good night’s sleep, I think it is difficult to build a stable life.
Can you share a memorable moment or case that reminded you why this work matters?
I recently worked with a client who was facing an ongoing series of unresolved conditions issues in her unit, and we were able to negotiate an early lease termination and return of her security deposit so that she could move on to a better housing situation. The scope of the matter was relatively modest, but being able to resolve the client’s longstanding issues with her landlord through a couple letters and emails—and her happiness at being able to move on from the situation—highlighted for me that we, as attorneys, can help clients achieve seemingly small victories that are meaningful to their lives.
What skills or experiences have you gained through volunteering here?
I have learned a great deal! My typical litigation practice has nothing to do with housing issues or the Chicago Residential Landlord Tenant Ordinance. LCBH attorneys have been generous with their time and have provided wonderful training, resources, and feedback as I have handled several client matters. It has been wonderful to step outside of my normal practice and delve into a new area with so much support!
What’s one thing you wish more people understood about the challenges tenants face in eviction court or with conditions in their units?
Navigating the legal system is difficult and incredibly time consuming for the average person. Moreover, courts, judges, and notices from landlords full of legalese can be so intimidating for most people. On the other hand, a call from an attorney clearly explaining their rights or a couple of calls or letters written on their behalf can go a long way in easing their minds and freeing up their time.
What keeps you motivated to give your time and expertise pro bono?
The clients, the support of my firm, and the incredible example set by the attorneys on staff at LCBH and other legal nonprofits who do this wonderful work all day every day.
What advice would you give to other attorneys or volunteers who are thinking about getting involved?
Do it! You will be happy you did. I have spoken to attorneys before who have been hesitant about stepping into areas outside their normal practice for fear of messing something up or providing the wrong advice. LCBH has great training, support, and resources, so you have nothing to worry about.