Social impact

We use our skills to address injustice around the world, working to build a fair society with equal opportunities for all. We do this by increasing access to justice, social finance, education and employment, and supporting our local communities through the A&O Shearman Foundation.

Child in white shirt and dark vest seated at desk with one arm raised against dark background.

This work reflects the culture of our firm and our commitment to our people, our clients, and the wider legal sector.

We do this by:

Funding the work of charitable organizations
Supporting community projects
Giving pro bono advice
Helping clients to maximize their positive social impact
Leveraging our global social finance expertise

Our global social impact partner for 2025–2027 is United for Global Mental Health, bringing the firm together to fundraise, provide pro bono and professional advice, and give in-kind support.

Our global social impact partner

United for Global Mental Health

00:00 / 00:00

Our colleagues have selected “children and young people” as the priority area of focus for the partnership. As well as working directly with United, we’ll also support four of United for Global Mental Health’s national partners working along this theme.

Our overall goal is to provide USD1 million in fundraising, as well as substantial pro bono support.

If your organization is interested in hearing about future partnerships.

Join our mailing list

A smiling woman in the forest holding out her hands

The power of collective action

Highlights from our previous global social impact partnership with Women for Women International

Between 2023 and 2025, A&O Shearman partnered with Women for Women International to support women in conflict zones through fundraising, volunteering, and pro bono legal work. The firm raised GBP1.2 million, exceeding its target and funding key initiatives in Iraq and Sudan.

Learn more