by Kathy Para
JBA Pro Bono Committee Chair
Living life to the fullest is made easier by examining success stories like that of William “Bill” Gallogly.
Success is most accurately measured by the significance of what we do with respect to ourselves and others. Pro bono work is very significant and meaningful to the clients and the attorneys involved, attorneys like the “Pro Bono Attorney of the Month,” Bill Gallogly.
Gallogly describes pro bono work in a similar way and views it as an opportunity for him and others. After nearly 40 years of representing clients on a pro bono basis in a variety of matters, both in South Florida and through Jacksonville Area Legal Aid (JALA), Gallogly is also a mentor to new pro bono attorneys.
Upon being named JALA’s Pro Bono Attorney of the Month, Gallogly gave credit and thanks to God for providing him with the desire, time and ability to serve needy clients.
As a result, many other people may be thanking God for those gifts, as well.
In addition to taking pro bono cases through JALA, Gallogly reviews many cases referred to JALA in the areas of probate and wills and advance directives.
These important contributions come in the form of weekly visits to JALA, where Gallogly not only accepts and reviews cases, but also serves as a resource for newly licensed attorneys who are willing to assist pro bono clients in probate and elder law matters.
This continuous involvement at JALA is not just important to Gallogly. His assistance to clients and other attorneys has influential and enduring impacts on the community within and beyond JALA.
It is therefore with the sincerest appreciation that Gallogly’s work is now recognized as an integral part of the legal community and Gallogly himself is recognized as a role model for people who are considering pro bono work.
When Gallogly is not working or volunteering his efforts, he enjoys spending his free time with his wife and enjoys a game of tennis when time permits. He is currently practicing in the areas of probate and real estate, but also works part time for a national title underwriter as associate counsel.
With such a busy schedule, one might think that it would be difficult to volunteer time for pro bono work, but attorneys often describe pro bono work as more rewarding than paid legal work because it is so meaningful and it provides attorneys with much needed positive energy.
When questioned about advice for other attorneys considering pro bono work, Gallogly encouraged any lawyer considering pro bono work to view the opportunity as the highest professional calling in the practice of law.
Gallogly also explained that most pro bono matters are more about lifting a real burden for clients without means than about “who gets the money.”
This does seem like a realistic approach to living life to the fullest and we thank him for sharing his valuable expertise on behalf of people in need.
Attorneys interested in getting involved in pro bono opportunities throughout the Fourth Judicial Circuit are encouraged to contact Kathy Para, The Jacksonville Bar Association Pro Bono Committee chair at 356-8371, ext. 363 or [email protected].