Pro Bono Spotlight: Robert Wall
Robert Wall
This month, we get the pleasure to highlight Rob Wall — an NCBA member who embodies commitment to pro bono, leadership and service as a model of professionalism to other lawyers. Rob currently works as a tax attorney at Baker Donelson Bearman Caldwell & Berkowitz. He is joining the NCBA Board of Governors and the NCBF Board of Trustees on July 1, 2026.
Most of his pro bono work focuses on charitable organizations that cause a positive ripple effect in communities both inside and outside the United States. The organizations he serves with heavily promote economic development in underserved communities and create pathways out of poverty. Previously, he has dedicated time to individual projects, NC Lawyers on Call (4ALL), and the VITA program — the IRS’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program that provides free tax return preparation to underserved populations.
His most recent work involved assisting charities in Africa and Europe so they could comply with U.S. tax law for charitable structure. One of these charities is called “Grasslands Cameroon,” and they assist small farms in central Africa with best farming practices and bringing agricultural products to market. Another was the “Mama Doing Good” charity, which provided small loans and training for women-owned businesses in rural Africa. Lastly, the European charity was the Gerard Basset Foundation, promoting education, mentorship and community in the wine and hospitality industries regardless of someone’s background or circumstance.
Rob’s commitment to pro bono service is at the center of his legal practice.
“I think that pro bono work is an essential part of our profession as attorneys,” says Wall. “Volunteering time and our professional skills to areas of need in our communities is not optional. It is a part of what makes us, as lawyers, professionals.”
Rob has previously won the NCBA Citizen Lawyer Award and Akerman Pro Bono Award for his work.