Volunteer of the Month – August 2024

Katherine Pennetti is a partner at Nelson Mullins.

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

I started working on pro bono cases several years ago; however, I have devoted a significant amount of time to pro bono work (specifically with DVAP) since I joined my firm, Nelson Mullins, in March 2023. Nelson Mullins is very devoted to pro bono work and encourages all of its attorneys to give back. I’m thankful to work for a firm that cares about my community as much as I do.

• • Describe your most compelling pro bono case. 

Most recently, I helped to resolve a decades-long dispute over familial property for an elderly client.

• • Why do you do pro bono?

Because no person should ever be made to feel like his/her economic means are a barrier to receiving good legal services.

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

My pro bono work is one of the best parts of my career. I love turning my clients’ problems into solutions and counseling them on how to avoid future pitfalls.

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

It sounds cliché, but getting to work with and help people in your community is so rewarding. There is no better feeling than knowing you are making a difference in someone’s life simply by showing up when others wouldn’t.