Professionalism is like obscenity - you know it when you see it. It may bring to mind different things for different people, but for all lawyers, it is some combination of character, competency, civility and service. For many, service is the bedrock. It marks the difference between a business and a profession. As an ABA Professionalism Committee said, the practice of law is the pursuit of "a learned art in service to clients and in the spirit of public service."

October has been declared Professionalism Month in Colorado. To commemorate the occasion, consider making a contribution to the Legal Aid Foundation in honor of a Colorado lawyer who has consistently demonstrated his or her commitment to public service. The Legal Aid Foundation will in turn give special recognition to lawyers so honored. Make your gift here.     

Innovation is proving to be particularly important as the need for civil legal assistance grows. The Legal Services Corporation recently awarded Colorado Legal Services a $43,920 technology grant. The grant will be used to develop a mobile app allowing attorneys to volunteer for pro bono work and giving them the necessary information.