Partner Preet Bharara was recently honored with the Volunteer Lawyers for Justice’s (VLJ) Champion for Justice Award at its 2024 Arts & Eats for Justice Gala, where he also engaged in a fireside chat with Partner and Litigation/Controversy Chair Ronald Machen.

The Arts & Eats for Justice Gala, held in October at the Park Savoy Estate in Florham Park, New Jersey, is an annual event that honors VLJ staff, volunteers, sponsors and community partners who further access to justice for people experiencing poverty.

“I’m honored to be recognized with Volunteer Lawyers for Justice’s Champion of Justice Award,” Bharara said after the event. “The pro bono work VLJ does is crucial, and I’m proud to be part of its efforts to effect positive change for families in need.” The award recognizes the exemplary pro bono work of VLJ volunteers and the impact they have on the lives of their clients. Volunteers have advocated on behalf of their clients for safer housing conditions, financial aid and criminal record expungement, among other causes.

Machen added, “VLJ is helping make quality legal services accessible for those who need them most. This year’s annual gala was a wonderful opportunity to celebrate that work amongst our valued clients and the larger legal community.”

Other firm lawyers in attendance at the gala included Partners Matt Jones, Yoon Hi Greene, Claire Guehenno and Ericka Aiken and Senior Associate Ravi Singh.

Bharara was one of three honorees of the evening, with Lowenstein Sandler LLP Partner Catherine Weiss receiving the Partner in Justice Award and RBC Wealth Management honored with the Community Vision Award.