Green & Spiegel U.S. Managing Partner recognized for providing extensive pro bono immigration education and legal preparedness resources throughout Philadelphia
Jonathan A. Grode, Esq., Managing Partner and Practice Director of Green & Spiegel U.S., has been named the recipient of the 2026 Philadelphia Bar Foundation Pro Bono Award. The award recognizes Grode’s leadership and extraordinary commitment to pro bono immigration education and expanding access to justice throughout the Philadelphia region.
The Philadelphia Bar Foundation selected Grode following a competitive review process, recognizing the significant impact of his immigration work during a period when access to immigration-related legal services is critically needed. While the award honors Grode’s individual pro bono service, it also reflects the support of Green & Spiegel U.S., which enabled him to dedicate the time and resources necessary to expand these educational efforts throughout Philadelphia.
Through free “Know Your Rights” and “Preparing for ICE at Your Business” trainings, Grode translated complex immigration laws into practical guidance for employers, employees, nonprofit leaders, and community members across Philadelphia. Topics included constitutional rights during workplace enforcement actions, the differences between judicial and administrative warrants, Form I-9 compliance, internal response planning, employee protections, and lawful interactions with federal authorities.
“Immigration enforcement can create tremendous uncertainty for businesses, employees, and entire communities,” said Grode. “Our goal has been to ensure that organizations have accurate information, practical procedures, and the confidence to protect their employees’ rights while meeting their legal responsibilities. To be able to offer this support at no charge to members of the community has been one of the most rewarding ways to give back to the town we call home. This recognition reflects the support of the entire Green & Spiegel U.S. team and our shared commitment to serving the city of Philadelphia. We are honored that the Philadelphia Bar Foundation has recognized this work and our firm’s commitment to pro bono legal services.”
Grode delivered trainings to a broad cross-section of Philadelphia’s business, nonprofit, arts, cultural, hospitality and immigrant communities. With the support of Green & Spiegel U.S., he expanded the initiative’s reach through partnerships and public programs designed to help organizations and community members prepare for increased immigration enforcement.
Through these efforts, Grode helped participants better understand their legal rights and responsibilities, develop practical response plans, improve immigration compliance, and protect employees and community members.
Grode was honored at the 2026 Philly Justice Ball on Saturday, November 7, at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts in Philadelphia. Hosted by the Philadelphia Bar Foundation, the event celebrated individuals and organizations working to advance equal access to justice as the nation marked the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
For more information about the 2026 Philly Justice Ball, visit philabarfoundation.org.
