Volunteer of the Month – March 2022

Brielle Rowe is an associate at Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld LLP.

• • What types of cases have you accepted?

Thus far I have done a number of estate planning cases which involve drafting a client’s will and ancillary power of attorney documents. I have also taken on some divorce cases.

• • Describe your most compelling pro bono case.

I recently did an estate planning case for a veteran and former high school teacher and coach. When he was in my office signing the documents, he shared with me that he had just received bad news from his physician. There had been issues in probating his relative’s estate and he was so thankful that his family would not have to go through that same process. That conversation helped to put pro bono work into a more tangible context – the time I had spent drafting his estate planning documents and ensuring they were properly executed would help save precious hours of worrying about his family’s future.

• • Why do you do pro bono?

I do pro bono because I was once in a situation where I needed pro bono assistance and I’ve experienced the relief and comfort of knowing that someone out there cares and wants to help. I strive to provide that same peace of mind with my pro bono work.

• • What impact has pro bono service had on your career?

With the guidance and assistance of the DVAP mentoring attorneys, pro bono work has afforded me the opportunity to expand outside of my real estate practice. I’ve had the opportunity to file petitions and submit final orders that were accepted and signed by the court.

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

Being able to interact with the client one on one and address their concerns in a productive manner has been incredibly rewarding.