This session introduces Medical-Legal Partnerships (MLPs), an innovative pro bono model where lawyers work with healthcare providers to address legal issues that affect health. In everyday terms, it shows how problems like unsafe housing, denied benefits, utility shutoffs, disability barriers, family challenges, or documentation issues can directly impact a person’s well-being.

Using real examples, the session explains how MLPs function in practice, from patient screening and referrals to legal intervention and systemic change. Participants will explore how this approach can be adapted in emerging markets, gaining practical insight into how pro bono legal support can improve both health outcomes and access to justice.