In Northeast Florida and beyond, the need for pro bono attorneys continues to grow.
That is why Jacksonville Area Legal Aid and the Northeast Florida Medical Legal Partnership celebrate attorneys like Mark Papa of Harrell & Harrell.
Since 2010, Papa has handled many pro bono cases in the areas of Social Security Disability and Supplemental Security Income claims.
When asked about advice for attorneys who might consider accepting pro bono cases and becoming involved in pro bono representation, Papa replied, “Just do it. You will find that members of The Jacksonville Bar are more than willing to give guidance and assist in your pro bono efforts.”
Papa describes one case in which a developmentally disabled teenager was receiving SSI benefits and began working in sheltered employment at a grocery store a couple of hours per week.
Social Security interpreted this work as evidence of the teenager’s ability to work, so he was no longer considered disabled and his SSI benefits were terminated.
This action also terminated the teenager’s Medicaid benefits, which he relied on for medical treatment and medications.
Fortunately, through Papa volunteering his time and energy to this young person’s legal problem, the issues were resolved and they were able to reverse Social Security’s action. Today, this person continues to receive those vital benefits.
There are many people in Northeast Florida who find themselves in similar situations. For some people, pro bono aid is the only option for successful navigation of the legal system.
Papa’s dedication to the community and willingness to reach out to fellow attorneys has a far-reaching positive impact for those unable to afford legal representation.
Pro bono attorneys often reflect on pro bono work as rewarding far beyond any investment of personal time and energy.
The Jacksonville Bar Association and the greater legal community are available to provide support for these attorneys in CLE webinars, expert resource guidance, and professional liability coverage when serving a pro bono client.
Mark Papa is the Pro Bono Attorney of the Month for May as a result of his generous contributions to our community and his ongoing efforts to share his legal expertise.
He has expanded the services that JALA and NFMLP are able to provide to the vulnerable and underserved.
People who know Mark Papa know that he does not do this work for recognition, but he has certainly earned it.
Thanks to all those who volunteer to strengthen our community. Attorneys interested in pro bono opportunities throughout the Fourth Judicial Circuit are encouraged to contact Kathy Para, chairperson, The Jacksonville Bar Association Pro Bono Committee, [email protected].
To review cases in need of placement with pro bono attorneys, visit jaxlegalaid.org.