Pro Bono High Five: Brandon Roché

Brandon Roché, Colorado Chapter

Brandon Roché is a Colorado-based immigration law attorney with a 100% virtual practice focused on family and humanitarian immigration. He works with clients all over the U.S. and world. Brandon received his B.A. from Georgetown University in 2002 and his J.D. from Gonzaga University School of Law in 2008. He also served as a Peace Corps volunteer in Honduras from 2003-2005. You can find more information about Brandon’s background and immigration practice at www.rocheimmigration.com

1. How did you get started with pro bono work?

I got my start in immigration law working with unaccompanied minors at non-profits (shoutout to the Cabrini Center and Children's Immigration Law Academy). I learned immigration law via my time there and had great mentors who encouraged me to volunteer for various pro bono projects or clinics so I could broaden my knowledge base. When I went into private practice, I didn't want to put my face on the side of a bus stop. I found the best way to get new clients and referrals from other attorneys was volunteering, working alongside them, and doing good work for the pro bono clients we were helping.

2. Why do you do pro bono? What do you personally get out of doing pro bono work?

Ha, I blame that on my Jesuit education (Georgetown undergrad, Gonzaga Law) and my time in the Peace Corps. I've always felt like it's best to address the need and figure the rest out later - even if the rest is sometimes: "How do I get paid to do this thing that so obviously needs doing?"

3. What has been your most rewarding experience and your most challenging experience doing this work?

The most rewarding has been seeing my pro bono work recognized by paying clients and referrals from colleagues. I have consults where they'll tell me: "You helped my cousin at a workshop months ago and they say you're someone I should trust, so I'm hiring you." Validation of my good karma = good business advertising strategy.

The most challenging is always saying no to a meritorious pro bono case because I have to pay the bills. It's always a fine line.

4. What is a pro bono project you are currently working on that you are most passionate about?

I'm currently working with AILA CO and the CO Governor's Office of New Americans on setting up and running a virtual legal clinic for TPS+EAD for TPS-eligible people in CO. I love that we're filling a massive need but also that I've been able to negotiate low bono rates for our volunteer attorneys helping to prepare the apps. One of my passions has been trying to help the immigration law community get paid (even low bono) for consistently answering the call of every immigration crisis du jour. Not every immigration-related crisis response can rely entirely on pro bono work because that leads directly to burnout and financial stress in our profession. I'd love to expand the model so that state governments and donors begin to realize we have to be compensated, even at a minimal amount, when there's inevitably another immigration crisis that needs our expertise.

5. Do you have advice for other attorneys interested in taking on pro bono matters?

Do good work, do right by people (clients and colleagues), it'll pay off in the long run. Also, pay attention to detail and don't sweat the small stuff.