Joshua “Josh” Gostel’s journey into pro bono work began during his years at Georgetown Law, where he first discovered his passion for helping those with limited resources.
While volunteering with the Capital Area Immigrant Rights Coalition in Washington, D.C., he provided free legal assistance to detained immigrants, planting the seeds for what would become a lifelong commitment to pro bono service.
After seven years in practice focusing primarily on commercial and construction litigation, Gostel moved to Jacksonville in 2021 and immediately sought opportunities to continue his pro bono work in his new community. It was then that he connected with JALA’s Pro Bono Unit, where he has since become an invaluable volunteer attorney.
Gostel’s involvement with Jacksonville Area Legal Aid spans multiple programs and initiatives. He regularly participates in JALA’s Eviction Defense Self-Help Project, helping tenants understand their rights and navigate complex housing issues, especially those faced with habitability issues in their home.
He also volunteers for JALA’s “Ask-A-Lawyer” events, providing brief consultations and guidance to community members who might otherwise have no access to legal advice.
Beyond these clinic activities, he has handled specific landlord/tenant and collections cases on behalf of pro bono clients through JALA, bringing his litigation expertise to those who need it most.
Recently, Gostel successfully represented a nonprofit with the collection of a judgment, volunteering 60 pro bono hours on this single case.
His commitment to justice extends beyond JALA as well. Gostel has provided pro bono services through the Policing Working Group of the Law Firm Antiracism Alliance where he previously served as co-chair, demonstrating his dedication to systemic change and community advocacy.
Asked why he continues to dedicate his time to pro bono work, Gostel’s response reflects the multifaceted benefits of this service.
“I do pro bono work for many reasons. First and most importantly, it gives me the opportunity to give back and help those in need with limited resources. Additionally, pro bono work provides me with the opportunity to develop my legal skills and gain further experience as a litigator. Lastly, it allows me to build professional relationships with other legal professionals and organizations,” he said.
For attorneys considering pro bono involvement, Gostel offers encouraging advice: “All one has to do is reach out to JALA and express interest in doing pro bono work and giving back to the community. JALA offers many types of pro bono opportunities for legal professionals to choose from, so there is likely to be pro bono work that one can take on that aligns with their interests.”
Outside the office, Gostel values quality time with his wife, whether that means taking their dog for walks, going to movies, trying new restaurants or simply relaxing at home. This balance between professional service and personal fulfillment reflects the holistic approach that many successful pro bono attorneys bring to their practice.
Gostel exemplifies the spirit of pro bono service, using his legal skills and experience to bridge the justice gap while continuing to grow professionally and personally. His diverse involvement with JALA’s Pro Bono Unit demonstrates how attorneys can find meaningful ways to contribute to their community regardless of their primary practice area.
I am grateful for his ongoing commitment to pro bono work and his dedication to ensuring that quality legal representation is available to all members of our community.
For those interested in getting involved with JALA’s Pro Bono Unit, visit www.jaxlegalaid.org/pro-bono where you can find several volunteer opportunities, including cases awaiting placement.