Attorney Chauntel Miller stepped up to assist a family in crisis when a mother, who always had been the caretaker of her disabled daughter, was diagnosed with terminal cancer.
As the family was dealing with the tragedy of the prognosis, they had the foresight and courage to make arrangements for the care of the disabled daughter.
The family decided the son was in the best position to take over as guardian, so he applied for legal aid services to establish a guardian advocacy for his sister.
Miller describes the case:
What were you able to accomplish for your client?
He was appointed guardian advocate for his sister prior to his mother passing.
The family dealt with tremendous sadness and uncertainty during their mother’s illness. I think getting the guardian advocacy judgment in place before his mother’s death provided everyone with comfort and assurance.
My client rested a bit better knowing he would be able to care for his sister and act on her behalf. It was one less transition the family had to face.
Why was the outcome important to your client?
If my client had not been appointed guardian of his sister, he would have been unable to effectively look after her needs when his mother passed away.
Why was the experience important to you? What did you gain from the experience?
This experience was deeply rewarding.
The whole process was completed in a little less than eight hours and by giving a few hours of my time, I was able to help a family in need.
Attorneys Imani Boykin and Judi Setzer served as expert resources and were available to provide guidance to me along the way. Their expertise added to my personal and professional benefit and my confidence increased because I felt like I was covering all the bases.
What is the name of your firm? In what areas do you practice?
CG Law Firm and my areas of practice are family law, estate planning, estate administration, guardianship and now –– guardian advocacy.
What advice do you have for other attorneys considering pro bono involvement?
It is a great way to serve our community and also to learn and grow in various areas of law.
We can imagine the relief felt by this family in getting their important legal work completed.
We wish for them comfort and healing and we are grateful Miller was able to support them during a difficult time.
Attorneys interested in pro bono opportunities throughout the 4th Judicial Circuit are encouraged to contact [email protected].