Akin Once Again Named Among Bloomberg Law’s Pro Bono Innovators

For the second year in a row, Bloomberg Law has selected Akin for its Pro Bono Innovators series.

The series highlights a selection of legal leaders that “embody innovation and dedication in their pro bono work for the underserved” by developing “creative strategic approaches to solve pressing issues for their clients that often impacted their quality of life.”

Akin, along with Hughes Hubbard & Reed, was selected for representing democracy advocate Paul Rusesabagina—who was released from prison in Rwanda earlier this year and who inspired the 2004 film “Hotel Rwanda,” which depicted his efforts to save over 1,200 people during the 1994 Rwandan genocide—and Paul Whelan—a U.S. Marine veteran detained in Russia after being convicted for espionage—in their pursuit to be reunited with their families in the United States.

Akin international trade partner Ryan Fayhee, who joined the firm in July and leads the representations of Rusesabagina and Whelan, said in Bloomberg’s Q&A profile:

“The strength and determination of families fighting for the well-being and recovery of their loved ones is always the key to a successful result – however “success” may be defined in this context – whether ideally it is a release or ensuring that efforts toward a release are prioritized by the very top of our government. It always amazes me that our darkest moments as a human race – in some instances the harshest physical abuse and isolation imaginable – can also carry a silver lining.”

To read the full profile, click here.