Doris Walker, Attorney at Law, has been a volunteer with MVLS since 1997. She has accepted 60 cases in that time, including bankruptcy, collections, tax controversy, 41 divorce and custody cases, landlord-tenant, foreclosure, expungement, and estate planning. Of the 60 cases she has handled through MVLS, 22 of them were in the past two years.

Doris is always eager to assist in any way she can, no matter how small or how late in the process. If we are ever pressed for time or running out of options, Doris is there to help out, particularly with those less “attractive” cases.

Beyond handling cases, Doris has shared her knowledge with other MVLS volunteers, serving as a trainer for our March Divorce Training.
Read on to hear more from her about why pro bono matters!

• Why do you choose to volunteer with MVLS?

I come from a Legal Services background and trying to achieve a good outcome for clients who have a legal need has always been my driving motivation. MVLS clients are screened for need, and they are generally very cooperative clients who appreciate the time and effort required to resolve their cases.

• Do you have any stand out stories?

I am generally reluctant to share stories because of client confidentiality, but a recent rewarding case involved a woman who was seeking primary custody, a change from 50/50 custody. She was being branded as overprotective, but we prevailed by presenting the medical evidence to show that her child did in fact have medical conditions that, if not addressed, could have had serious adverse consequences.  Another case involved a mother who had conquered substance abuse and was living a life committed to sobriety.  She was able to regain expanded, unsupervised visitation with her children, and she was so happy.

• What is your favorite part about volunteering with MVLS?

There is a support network at MVLS that is always available if a volunteer has a need.   The clients are also generally very good to work with, and they are very grateful for the work we do.

• Why should other attorneys do pro bono?

It is a part of our commitment to make this profession of ours—which takes a lot of hits but is actually quite honorable—better and of greater value to the communities we serve.