Volunteer of the Month – October 2015

Firm: Gruber Hurst Elrod Johansen Hail Shank LLP

Tricia DeLeon is a commercial litigation and bankruptcy partner at Gruber Hurst Elrod Johansen Hail Shank LLP. She has volunteered with the Dallas Volunteer Attorney Program throughout her entire 16-year career. No matter how busy her billable docket is, Tricia’s goal is to maintain at least one active DVAP pro bono case at all times. She typically spends between 75-100 hours a year on pro bono work as the lead attorney or mentoring attorney. Tricia has handled nearly every kind of matter DVAP has to offer: wills and estate planning, probate, family law matters, guardianships, expunctions, and landlord-tenant issues. Tricia says she is committed to DVAP because she respects its mission to provide free legal help and access to the justice system for low-income people in the Dallas community. “If volunteer lawyers did not help our neighbors, who would? This is my responsibility and a privilege to serve. DVAP makes it so easy for me to get involved.” Tricia finds joy in helping those who are so appreciative of her time and advice. “Nothing beats receiving a hug or a thank you note from a client who sincerely needed your help.” Tricia also serves on the Dallas Bar Association’s Pro Bono Activities Committee. One of the committee’s goals is to provide all DBA members with information and access to pro bono work and legal clinics. Thanks for all you do, Tricia!