West Alabama legal professionals had the chance to momentarily escape the stress of work and enjoy each other’s company Thursday at the West Central Alabama Pro Bono Celebration.

Held at the St. James Hotel, the daylong celebration coincides with Gov. Robert Bentley’s proclamation to declare October 2014 as Pro Bono Month in Alabama.

Pro Bono Month highlights the work of legal professionals who have donated their time and legal advice at no charge to those who normally cannot afford legal assistance.

“I think [pro bono] is necessary for our own growth and development not to simply take from a community but to actually give something back,” said Julia Weller, the court clerk for the Alabama Supreme Court.

Weller was one of many legal representatives who spoke at the Thursday ceremony, which began with a light lunch and concluded with a cocktail party.

Alabama State Bar President Richard Raleigh, with of Wilmer & Lee, P.A.; Dallas County Probate Judge Kim Ballard; and Eric Anderson, the Alabama State Bar Digital communications director were among the many to deliver a speech Thursday.

“We have such esteemed judges and guest speakers,” said Jana Garner, an attorney with Reeves & Stewart, P.C. “It’s a privilege to have those who are willing to come and spend their time in Selma and Dallas County.”

Pro Bono month is also designed to educate the general public about pro bono efforts, according to Alabama State bar.

The group reported more than 4,500 attorneys in Alabama are enrolled in pro bono programs statewide.

Cassandra Adams, the chair of the Alabama State Bar Pro Bono Task Force, told her colleagues she recognizes the sacrifice that comes with their occupation and appreciates their willingness to dedicate their expertise at no charge.

“I’m here to say thank you and applaud you for your efforts and encourage you to keep on,” Adams said.

“I also offer a challenge to pass those ethics and practices on to the young attorneys.”