We are proud to support the Making Justice Real Campaign at the Legal Aid Society of the District of Columbia, one of our closest pro bono partners. The Campaign will provide free legal assistance to thousands of DC residents who need a lawyer but can’t afford one. To learn more about the campaign, sign up to participate, or donate, visit https://secure.qgiv.com/event/makingjusticereal/team/861824/

Rebecca Heath, a litigation associate in our Washington, D.C. office, discusses her experience working with the Legal Aid Society:

How did you first become involved with Legal Aid Society? 

I first became involved with Legal Aid as a summer associate working on the bake sale as part of the Generous Associates Campaign. 

Are you involved with a pro bono case currently? 

Earlier this year, I worked with Legal Aid on a child custody case in which a mother was seeking “tie-breaking” legal authority over her two young children. Her husband had a history of abusive and erratic behavior, so she wanted to ensure he could not arbitrarily interfere with her parenting. We were able to obtain a custody order granting her full legal custody and reflecting increased child support payments. 

What about organization or mission do you think more people should know? 

Legal Aid is a VITAL organization for people dealing with the harshest effects of COVID-19. They assist people in obtaining governmental assistance. They prevent illegal foreclosures and evictions. They provide resources to survivors of domestic violence who, in some cases, are being forced to quarantine with their abusers. And most recently, Legal Aid has joined the lobbying efforts to maximize resources that are crucial to addressing the challenges that marginalized communities face. For those that are concerned about how the pandemic is affecting the city’s most vulnerable populations, or for those who have watched the recent protests against systemic racism that plagues our legal system and wanted to know how to help, this campaign is a good place to start. 

How can others become involved in the Making Justice Real campaign? 

There are so many ways to become involved! The most obvious is simply donating money. These donations are so important for funding the great work that Legal Aid does, so every penny counts! However, if people do not have the resources to give right now or have donated and would like to get further involved, there are definitely other options! If you have an idea for a virtual event or if you would like to assist in coordinating or planning events, we are gladly accepting help! If you are comfortable reaching out your social network to solicit donations, that is great too. Josh Lee and I would be happy to provide talking points or information for you to share. Or, if you have time, take on a Legal Aid pro bono case. They are great opportunities to learn new skills, clock some billable hours, and do some good in the world as well! There is definitely room for anyone who would like to participate, so please reach out if you are interested!

ABOUT BAKER BOTTS L.L.P.
Baker Botts is an international law firm whose lawyers practice throughout a network of offices around the globe. Based on our experience and knowledge of our clients' industries, we are recognized as a leading firm in the energy, technology and life sciences sectors. Since 1840, we have provided creative and effective legal solutions for our clients while demonstrating an unrelenting commitment to excellence. For more information, please visit bakerbotts.com.