Mehta, who was honored by the State Bar last year for his pro bono work, contributed nearly 2,000 hours of legal assistance to clients of the Public Law Center in Santa Ana. Although Babbitt was executed, Patterson was able to show his prior lawyer made several errors and he raised public support for Babbitt because of mental illness. Heller Ehrman has a long tradition of performing pro bono work. Both the firm's management and its lawyers make a commitment to pro bono work integral to their work ethic. It has handled cases including homeless, civil rights, veterans' rights and environmental issues.
Grants are available only in specified service areas.
The Request for Proposals also is available at that web site. The day-long essay exam, one part of the certification application, tests comprehensive practical knowledge of trial practice, ethics and evidence relevant to particular specialties.