Beyond the Brochure: Pro Bono at Weil

DALLAS – Weil enjoys a longstanding relationship with the Dallas Volunteer Attorney Program (“DVAP”), an organization that connects local attorneys with low income individuals who need basic legal help. In addition to providing pro bono support, Weil attorneys volunteer at DVAP’s clinics and participate in DVAP’s “Lend-a-Lawyer” program. Several weeks ago, Weil’s Dallas office took attorneys and summer associates to one such clinic to facilitate the intake procedure.

While summer associates could not yet offer legal advice during this early stage in DVAP’s process, the applicants appeared grateful just to have the opportunity to tell their stories. At the same time, the attorneys appreciated the opportunity to serve their community. And I was grateful to witness the symbiotic effect of pro bono work firsthand.

I saw a transactional attorney step outside his comfort zone and interview an applicant about a construction litigation matter. I overheard Weil attorneys discuss employment discrimination, paternity issues, and eviction disputes with applicants. Because of my Spanish-language skills, I even had the opportunity to help translate a conversation between a Weil associate and an applicant. I then watched that attorney spend hours over the next couple days, making phone calls, corresponding with DVAP and the applicant, and working to resolve the issue.

During my summer at Weil, I have seen lawyers tackle hyper-complex matters, and in fact, many Weil attorneys cite the high caliber of work as a major reason for choosing the firm. However, at the DVAP clinic, Weil showed us that rewarding legal work comes in all forms.