WASHINGTON—Covington was recognized by Bloomberg Law as a 2023 Pro Bono Innovator. This distinguished list highlights a selection of law firms, companies, and non-profits that embody innovation and dedication in their pro bono work for the underserved.
Covington's profile covers the firm's work representing Ukraine against the Russian Federation in the International Court of Justice and the firm's work with the ACLU securing a federal court settlement with the 36th District Court in Detroit ensuring that people are not jailed in violation of the Constitution because they cannot afford bail.
Both the ICJ matter and Detroit bail reform settlement transformed the legal landscape and had a profound impact; the ICJ matter advanced the rule of law against Russian aggression and the Detroit matter defended the constitutional rights of those jailed.
The ICJ application took Russian President Vladimir Putin’s allegations that Ukraine was committing genocide in eastern Ukraine and turned those allegations against him. Russia, as a party to the Genocide Convention, has consented to the ICJ as the forum at which disputes related to allegations of genocide may be resolved.
Covington’s approach opened a legal avenue to hold Russia accountable for its violations of international law, and the order that Covington secured for Ukraine has been relied upon by the United Nations, the Group of Seven, and others as part of broader accountability efforts. Ukraine has been resisting Russian aggression on many fronts – on the battlefield, in courtrooms, in the court of public opinion, and more.
Covington litigators included Marney Cheek, Jonathan Gimblett, and David Zionts.
Covington and co-counsel also worked to negotiate a historic agreement with the leadership of the 36th District Court in Detroit to ensure that people are not jailed in violation of the Constitution because they cannot afford bail. The reforms outlined in the settlement are seen as a model for other cities that wish to create a usable framework.
The Detroit cash bail settlement marks progress in a years-long fight for bail reform. The Detroit settlement was not only a historic win but marks progress in the fight to change bail practices across the country that disproportionately impact poor people of color.
The Covington team included Aaron Lewis and Eric Holder, along with ACLU of Michigan, ACLU National, The Bail Project, and the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund.
Covington has demonstrated a strong commitment to public service. The firm is frequently recognized for pro bono service, including 12 times being ranked the number one pro bono practice in the U.S. by The American Lawyer. Much of the firm's pro bono work is anchored in meeting local needs, serving economically disadvantaged individuals and families in our surrounding communities, in addition to its long history of serving vulnerable clients and important causes throughout the U.S. and the world.
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