AT A GLANCE: LEGAL SERVICES & NEIGHBOR HOOD DEVELOPMENT Through partnerships with area law firms, St. Philip’s has offered free legal services to South Dallas residents for over a decade. St. Philip’s focus on Neighborhood Development began thirty years ago.
Collaboration Ensures St. Philip’s Neighbors Receive Free Legal Aid A decade ago, St. Philip’s partnered with a few area lawyers, most
Hunton & Williams. “My dad’s firm has played a major role in
of whom worked with Hunton & Williams, LLP, to establish a
founding this clinic and been a huge part of its success. I’m very
free legal clinic on the campus. These monthly evening clinics are
grateful to my dad. He’s been involved since 2006.”
run by a dedicated group of volunteer attorneys to provide legal advice and sometimes representation to those with problems
Garner is also gratified to see the response from the legal
in civil law matters, such as family, housing, guardianships,
community as a whole in providing pro-bono services. He
wills, and estates. The clinic serves about 300 clients a year and
considers St. Philip’s clinic to be impressive given the loyal
is currently operated by attorneys from Hunton & Williams,
dedication of its volunteers. “Every month is rewarding,” he
Thompson & Knight, and Morgan, Lewis & Bockius, LLP.
explains. “Although we can’t solve everyone’s problem, we are
Attorneys receive legal clinic training from the Dallas Volunteer
consistently reminded about how much people appreciate just
Attorney Program (DVAP).
being heard and listened to. Clients are happy to talk through their issues and for us to give our thoughts. That’s what anyone would want.” On some occasions, the attorneys are able to do more than listen, but take on a case from a St. Philip’s client and enter into an attorney/client relationship. “The legal system can be overwhelming for a lot of people,” says Walker. “The clinic is a wonderful service we’re able to consistently provide our neighbors. We’re blessing lives.”
“Many people can’t afford legal services,” says Lasheryl Walker, Coordinator of St. Philip’s Community Center programs. “They don’t always have access to lawyers but we have them right here – once a month. St. Philip’s is creating access – to justice.” Bryan Garner, a former St. Philip’s trustee and attorney with Thompson & Knight, is heavily involved in the program and is proudly following in the footsteps of his father, Dan Garner, of
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SPRING MAGAZINE 2016
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