One of Michigan’s Most Dedicated Pro Bono Immigration Attorneys
Since March 2024, SWIRC attorney Debbie Bellovich has quietly become one of the most committed pro bono volunteers in Michigan’s legal community—contributing an extraordinary 25 hours per week of completely free legal services to immigrants at SWIRC. With over 1,300 hours of pro bono work in just her first year, Debbie may well rank among Michigan’s top pro bono attorneys by hours contributed.
For context, the State Bar of Michigan’s Pro Bono Honor Roll recognizes attorneys who provide 100+ hours annually as exceptional contributors. Debbie’s commitment far exceeds this benchmark, placing her dedication in rare company.
A Lifelong Commitment to Service
Pro bono work isn’t new territory for Debbie, it’s woven into her family’s DNA. “Our family grew up spending time each year doing pro bono work in New Mexico each summer,” she recalls. She spent eight years running a soup kitchen at Trumbull and Rosa Parks Boulevard and even volunteered a therapy dog at St. John’s Hospital until it became “the first furloughed employee during COVID”.
Her path to SWIRC came through personal connections. Two friends and their daughters who came through the immigration system as refugees and are now U.S. citizens inspired her return to the legal realm. Having known SWIRC Executive Director Kevin Piecuch for 30 years made the transition natural.
Finding Purpose Amid Complexity
“Making a difference in the midst of chaos” is what Debbie loves most about her work. Immigration law, she explains, differs from other practice areas through its unique administrative court system within the Department of Justice. “The system has become so complicated it’s difficult even for qualified attorneys to maneuver,” she notes. “I can’t imagine being a new arrival and having to work my way through the system. Many immigrants are terrified just going to the store.
Despite the challenges, Debbie’s passion remains undimmed. “I always want to come in,” she says. “I love the people I work with”.
Creating Opportunity Beyond Legal Relief
Debbie’s dedication goes far beyond courtroom advocacy. She has assisted dozens of SWIRC clients in obtaining legal work permits, personally helping them navigate the process and connecting many to job opportunities throughout metro Detroit. Her efforts have enabled new arrivals to secure stable employment, begin rebuilding their lives, and contribute to the community’s growing workforce. This hands-on support with both legal status and job placement is now a hallmark of Debbie’s approach to pro bono advocacy.
Through her exceptional dedication, Debbie Bellovich exemplifies the transformative power of pro bono service—not just changing lives but finding profound meaning in the work itself.
