by Kathy Para
JBA Pro Bono Committee Chair
“Over and over again Tommy Donahoo steps forward to assist a person in need,” states Sarah Fowler, Pro Bono JALA Manager.
For that reason, Jacksonville Area Legal Aid would like to honor Thomas M. Donahoo Jr. of Donahoo, Ball & McMenamy, P.A., as the Pro Bono Attorney of the Month for September.
JALA recognizes and commends Mr. Donahoo on the dozens of pro bono cases that he has accepted over the years in the areas of guardianship and wills and estates. Guardianship, in particular, continues to be an area of great need and the impact on family stability for JALA clients is significant.
Mr. Donahoo’s representation in so many of these cases helps ensure that some of the most vulnerable have a person designated to assist them in their daily living.
Donahoo has been practicing law in Florida since 1996.
He practices in the areas of trusts and estates, tax, estate planning, probate, and guardianships. He is a member of The Jacksonville and American Bar Associations. He is also a member of the Tax section of The Florida Bar. When asked why he became involved in pro bono work Donahoo responded, “I remember my dad taking me to the JALA office when I started practicing law with our firm. I believe once you have had a taste of pro bono work you realize what an impact you can have on those who need a little help or guidance with a problem. Sometimes they can be very interesting cases. In our area they can be short-term issues to resolve wills or an advanced directive, but to the client it’s a real burden. We are making a huge difference in their lives. In addition, more often than not, you have a long-term friend at the end.”
In one of his most rewarding cases, Donahoo remembers, “There was a certain young man in our community who faced a life-altering event. Some very generous people have supported him by creating a trust that helps to pay his bills. We gathered a group of talented trustees to guide him through what, at times, was an overwhelming period in his life. It has been a true example of the saying ‘when you give a little you gain so much more in return.’ This young man continues to be a blessing in my life.”
Donahoo firmly believes that the JALA staff attorneys are the ones who truly deserve the recognition. He states that he is humbled by what they do on a daily basis. Furthermore, he feels that today, more than ever, JALA needs whatever help attorneys can give to ensure that in our complex legal system justice is available to all.
JALA once again would like to thank and acknowledge Thomas M. Donahoo Jr. for his continued support of JALA, active involvement in pro bono work, and his commitment to serve low-income and underserved persons. JALA is privileged and grateful to have attorneys like Donahoo working on its behalf.
Attorneys interested in becoming involved in the efforts of JALA in Northeast Florida are encouraged to contact Kathy Para, Pro Bono Development Coordinator, at [email protected].