by Kathy Para
The JBA Pro Bono Committee Chairwoman
Pro bono work does not necessarily require an impeccable attitude for success, but great examples are always helpful for continuing inspiration.
In her interview as the August Pro Bono Attorney of the Month, attorney Jane Miller’s answer to the question “why did you become involved in pro bono work?” was simply “why wouldn’t I become involved in pro bono work?”
While dedicating time to pro bono every week may very well be the purest form of generosity for the ever-busy attorney, Miller, like most attorneys who work pro bono, is quick to describe the rewards of pro bono work.
Miller explains that practicing law in wills, trusts and estate planning is an education in human nature.
She smiles as she recalls the artists, the plumbers, the greeters, the new agers, the farmers, the World War II veterans, the Korean War veterans, the Vietnam War veterans, the truckers, the milliners, the saddle makers, the mothers, the fathers, the husbands, the wives, the sisters, the brothers, the significant others, and the alternate mates.
Whether the legal matter was a will, will substitute, explaining elective share, intestate, testate or the various intricacies of probate, her clients have been interesting and memorable.
While some cases are sure to be more memorable than others, each case has its own valuable lessons.
According to Miller, along with the efforts described above, the beneficiaries need to be defined and located in a positive manner.
“Add in some tissues, bags of assets to be organized, relationships among and between family members and significant others, the explanation of confusing terminology and you have simply, the ‘simple will,’” says Miller.
Asked what advice she could give to other attorneys considering accepting pro bono cases and being involved in pro bono representation, Miller replied, “Just do it. You will get to meet the great professionals like those at St. Johns County Legal Aid, Amanda, Joy, Megan and Val.”
Apparently, the only element required to help those in need of a “simple will” is simple will. Again, an impeccable attitude toward helping the underprivileged is not required for success, but this attitude — Jane’s attitude — provides an ongoing inspiration for all attorneys.
Attorneys interested in becoming involved in pro bono opportunities throughout the Fourth Judicial Circuit are encouraged to contact Kathy Para, The Jacksonville Bar Association Pro Bono Committee chairwoman, at 356-8371, ext. 363, or [email protected].