Volunteer of the Month – February 2024

Daniel Chavez is an associate at G.J. Chavez & Associates, P.C.

• • How did you first get involved in pro bono?

Through our firm, our attorneys have always been involved with the Dallas Bar Association. While I was first licensed, working with DVAP helped me learn the processes and helped guide me into the procedures of the different cases—thanks to DVAP’s mentor attorneys.

• • Describe your most compelling pro bono case.

My most compelling pro bono case had to be the first one I took. It wasn’t anything too difficult or controversial, but it was my first taste at how helpful pro bono work can be for those in need.

• • Why do you do pro bono?

I do pro bono because when I went to law school, my goal was to be able to help those in need or those who can’t help themselves. I’ve always believed that lack of income or lack of means should never mean that they should lack the ability to get justice. Maybe it’s a simple divorce or a stepparent adoption. Or maybe someone made a mistake a few years ago and now can’t get a job because of something on their record, and they need an expunction. I’m always excited to help and give back to my community.

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

Pro bono hasn’t made much of an impact on my career, solely because I don’t do it for the recognition or to use towards any specific goal. It just feels good to give back to my community and make things happen for those who can’t.

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

One of the most unexpected benefits of pro bono work that I have found is how much some of my clients will go out of their way to thank me for how I’ve helped them. It’s not a monetary or physical benefit, but the feeling when someone calls the office or just randomly stops by to thank me means the world.