Lawyers being reconized for their pro bono contributions...

JACKSON, MS (WLBT) - Members of the legal community were honored Wednesday for providing free legal services to people who can't afford legal representation.

The Mississippi Volunteer Lawyers Project held a special reception as part of National Pro Bono Week at the Mississippi Bar Center in Jackson.

It recognizes attorneys, law firms, students and organizations committed to helping low income people free of charge.

This year, about 275 volunteer lawyers are actively working on cases referred through the project. In 2009, almost 11,500 people received assistance with legal matters.