Volunteer of the Month – April 2025

Emma Jones is of counsel at O’Melveny & Myers LLP. 

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

I first got involved with pro bono when I transitioned to private practice following my service as a judicial law clerk for the U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Northern District of Texas. I particularly enjoy participating in DVAP’s clinics because every individual in need of legal aid I’ve interviewed has a different story to tell, and a different legal issue she or he needs assistance with.

• • Describe you most compelling pro bono case. 

While I have not yet taken on individual pro bono case, one of my most memorable DVAP clinic interviews involved a grandmother who owned a home and wanted to ensure that asset was bequeathed to, and divided properly among, certain of her children and grandchildren.

• • Why do you do pro bono? 

I do pro bono in an effort to make a tangible difference in individuals’ lives. Pro bono work also gives me the opportunity to work on a variety of legal issues that I do not encounter in my every day legal practice.

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

Pro bono service has had a tremendously positive impact on my career. It makes me appreciate why I became a lawyer: To help individuals in need get access to legal relief.

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

The most unexpected benefit I’ve received from pro bono work is working alongside other talented attorneys and law student volunteers who dedicate their time to DVAP’s clinics.