Pro Bono Commitment
Ms. Cleary chaired the Firm’s Pro Bono Committee from 1994 - 2014. The Firm is consistently recognized for its commitment to pro bono service on behalf of low income New Yorkers. Ms. Cleary has received one of the Legal Aid Society's 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017 and 2018 Pro Bono Publico Awards for her work on behalf of children in foster care and on behalf of runaway and homeless youth. Her past recognitions include the New York State Bar Association President's Pro Bono Service Award for the 1st Judicial District; the New York State Bar Association’s Root/Stimson Award, in honor of Elihu Root and Henry L. Stimson, whose careers personified the profession's commitment to public service; the New York County Lawyers’ Association’s 2016 Boris Kostelanetz President’s Medal; and the 2008 Public Service Law Firm Leadership Award from the Legal Aid Society. Ms. Cleary has also been recognized on multiple occasions by Mobilization for Justice (formerly MFY Legal Services, Inc.) for her contributions on behalf of clients with mental disabilities.