David Palay Named Pro Bono Attorney of the Year

MILWAUKEE – Reinhart Boerner Van Deuren s.c. (Reinhart) is pleased to announce that Shareholder David G. Palay has been named the firm’s 2022 Pro Bono Attorney of the Year.

Palay was chosen as this year’s honoree because of his extraordinary commitment to Reinhart’s pro bono program, serving individuals who cannot afford legal representation with empathy and respect. He provided nearly 200 hours of pro bono work in 2022.

When asked about the significance of the award, Palay commented, “Zealous advocacy is the lifeblood of our justice system, particularly in the criminal justice system and postconviction proceedings. For that reason, the legal community has long recognized the importance of pro bono work to a functioning justice system, and I’m incredibly proud that Reinhart so strongly champions that legacy. I know that our pro bono clients are thankful for the ongoing advocacy we’ve been able to provide because of it.”

Palay’s dedication and continued efforts have led to positive outcomes for his pro bono clients, from the district court level to appellate courts, as well as petitioning the U.S. Supreme Court. He has represented incarcerated individuals in litigation relating to the conditions of their confinement and has pursued appeals and civil rights cases on their behalf.

“We are tremendously proud of David’s commitment to justice and his service to those most in need of representation in our community,” said Reinhart CEO Albert Orr. “David’s level of dedication to others is inspiring to all of us, and we celebrate his many accomplishments in that regard.”

Palay’s pro bono service dates back to his law school years at the University of Chicago, where he worked with indigent clients in federal criminal matters as part of the school’s Federal Criminal Defense Clinic. He has also participated in general legal aid clinics during his years of practice.

As a member of Reinhart’s Litigation Practice, Palay counsels clients in cases involving fiduciary issues, contractual obligations and dealership law disputes, as well as non-litigious matters related to the ownership, governance and succession of family-controlled businesses. Having represented an array of clients in all stages of litigation before trial and appellate courts at both the state and federal levels, Palay has the perspective needed to act decisively and offer practical guidance. Combined with his passion, energy and creativity, this experience benefits all his clients, including those he serves on a pro bono basis.

Outside his work with the firm, Palay serves on the Board of Directors for Neighborhood House Community Center, a nonprofit dedicated to urban youth, families and seniors.

Reinhart initiated its Pro Bono Attorney of the Year award program in 2009 to recognize the exceptional efforts of attorneys within the firm who demonstrate a long-standing and devoted commitment to pro bono work.