Joseph Chukla, a solo family law attorney, has been a long-time volunteer with MVLS, accepting his first case in 1992. Since then, he has accepted 51 cases total, primarily in divorce and custody. Joseph’s work has been in the more rural areas of Maryland, where placing cases can be a bit more challenging.

MVLS paralegals describe Joseph as a relentless attorney who works extremely hard for all of his clients. He is willing to accept cases for clients who have very challenging circumstances.

Read on to hear more from Joseph about why pro bono matters!

• Why do you choose to volunteer with MVLS?

I chose to volunteer with MVLS because everyone deserves the opportunity for the most legal help they can get and there are many persons in our rural community who benefit from MVLS.

• Do you have any stand out stories?

I have been accepting cases from MVLS for almost 30 years and there have been so many wonderful people that each case is a special honor.

• What is your favorite part about volunteering with MVLS?

My favorite part about volunteering with MVLS is working with the talented, skilled and pleasant people at MVLS and the good feelings that come from positive outcomes for our clients. I have represented many clients who so appreciate MVLS because without MVLS, they would have gone unrepresented and most likely not fared as well with their legal issues. 

• Why should other attorneys do pro bono?

Other lawyers should consider doing pro bono work so they can discover the joy of doing something that benefits their community and many times levels the playing field when the client is facing an opponent who is healthier financially.