Articles

Legal Services of Greater Miami Celebrates Pro Bono Volunteers

Posted on October 29, 2020

Miami, Fl. — On October 29, 2020, Legal Services of Greater Miami, Inc. (Legal Services) recognized the volunteer services of over 340 attorneys and professional partners at its 2020 Pro Bono Celebration. The virtual event honored the pro bono volunteers who made extraordinary contributions throughout the year and during COVID-19. Pro bono volunteers took on cases assisting the community with the economic impacts of the pandemic, ranging from advocating against wrongful evictions, unemployment compensation claims, and stability options for small business.
“Our pro bono volunteers are pebbles that create a dynamic ripple effect that strengthens our community. They help us serve the thousands of clients that otherwise would not have an attorney to assist them with basic life needs.,” said Pro Bono Advocacy Director Jayme Cassidy.
Highlighting the evening was the presentation of the 2020 Equal Justice Awards to the following in recognition of their extraordinary commitment to equal justice:

• Small/ Solo Firm Award:  Alexander Antonio Salinas, Esq. & Joseph Samuel Mack, Esq.
• Large Firm Award:  Nelson Mullins LLP
• Impact Award: McDermott Will & Emery LLP
• Professional Partner Award: Berkowitz Pollack Brant Advisors + CPAs
• Clinic Partner Award: Carlos Gomez, Esq. & Vanessa Offutt, Esq.
• Partners for Equal Justice Award: Dana Dombey, Esq.

Neki Mohan hosted the event and the Honorable Marilyn Milian presented awards and addressed the pro bono honorees commenting on the positive impact of having an attorney has in a civil legal matter. Legal Services’ Board member, Scott Baena, emphasized that the duty to fulfill pro bono service is even greater now more than ever, “that the consequences of the pandemic are far more acute and the need and cries for help today may be deeper and more haunting than at any other time in our lifetime.”
“The need for legal services in our community cannot be met without pro bono volunteers,” said Executive Director Monica Vigues-Pitan. “We are grateful to have the support of so many dedicated pro bono professionals.”