The Crisis in Texas

Despite the extraordinary success and prosperity of Texas lawyers and law firms, the legal needs of the poor and disadvantaged remain among the highest in the nation.

Military veterans struggle with mental health and obtaining the benefits they have earned. Single moms and their children who are victims of violence need protection. Working families are being evicted from their homes without due process. Immigrants with legitimate claims for asylum face a complex, adversarial immigration system. Disaster relief assistance is needed by those hit by hurricanes, tornados, flooding near Camp Mystic, or other catastrophes.

The needs are great. And these are needs that require the help of lawyers.

"The assistance of a lawyer — even for just a few hours — could make a monumental difference in the lives of these and thousands of other Texans."

— Chief Justice Nathan Hecht, Former Texas Supreme Court

Independent Journalism for Public Good

Three years ago, The Texas Lawbook created a full-time reporter position to write about pro bono, public service, and diversity in the Texas legal profession.

Since 2023, the Lawbook Foundation has published more than 150 articles on these topics. All of these articles are free and available to the public. Our mission is to identify and highlight the work being accomplished by lawyers, law firms, and nonprofit organizations to inspire a more equitable future.

“The goal is simple — to showcase and celebrate the successes of law firms and lawyers... to shine a light on challenges and failures, and hopefully provide substantive insight on paths to success.”

— Derek Lipscombe, Toyota North America

“As Americans, we have to stay steadfast in our commitment to justice, equality, and fairness for all. By employing a dedicated staff writer, we keep these needs at the forefront of our minds.”

— Lauren Haller, Pattern Energy

Our Dual Function

The Texas Lawbook Foundation serves two primary purposes:

  1. Funding Journalism: Generating the resources to identify, research, and publish high-impact legal content.

  2. Promotion: Helping promote articles about pro bono and diversity to the wider legal community.

By supporting the Texas Lawbook Foundation, you are helping shine a light on those needs — and on the lawyers working to meet them.

Please contact me with any questions or suggestions at mark.curriden@texaslawbook.net.

Mark Curriden

Co-chair, Texas Lawbook Foundation