Volunteer of the Month – August 2018

Firm: Bracewell  LLP

1. How did you first get involved in pro bono?

My first involvement with pro bono was as a summer clerk for Bracewell when we spent an afternoon working at a legal clinic that was geared toward assisting veterans and their families.  The partner who led Bracewell’s pro bono efforts in Dallas at that time, who embodied the principle that it is an attorney’s privilege and duty to give back to the community, inspired me to make pro bono cases a constant part of my practice.

2. Why do you do pro bono?

Accepting pro bono cases allows me to give back to the citizens of our community who need legal assistance and cannot afford the cost of hiring an attorney.  I am fortunate to be able to practice law and use my knowledge and skills to help those in need.

3. What impact has pro bono service had on your career?

Pro bono service has allowed me to enhance my legal skills through early opportunities for depositions, courtroom experience, and client interaction.  I have also been able to diversify my practice and expand my knowledge in other areas of the law through the pro bono cases I have accepted.  Pro bono service has also given me the chance to meet people of varying backgrounds that I may not have otherwise met.

 4. What is the most unexpected benefit you have received from doing pro bono?

The community of people that I have met through pro bono service, including clients, attorneys, and pro bono service providers.