Samantha Stephenson, a senior associate at Hogan Lovells, began volunteering with MVLS in 2016 and has accepted 64 cases during that time, primarily in expungement but also in estate planning and administration. Samantha is a dedicated volunteer who has demonstrated passion for her clients. She has attended most of our Center for Urban Families expungement clinics and has often reached out to MVLS staff to follow up on her cases and discuss some of the finer details of expungement, demonstrating a genuine commitment to her clients.

Read on to hear why Samantha volunteers:

• Why do you choose to volunteer with MVLS?

In my interactions with MVLS, I have found that the individuals working for MVLS care deeply about the work the organization does and are very helpful in assisting those who volunteer. It is always inspiring to work with others who are inspired and motivated to see the work through to the end.

• Do you have any stand out stories?

Most of my work with MVLS has been working at expungement clinics. One of my favorite experiences is when an individual comes in and says, “I am not the person I used to be, and I have been working to change my future.” It is always a joy to see individuals who are not letting their past define them and are working to take control of their future.

• What is your favorite part about volunteering with MVLS?

This will sound redundant, but I really enjoy working with MVLS because I have worked with so many individuals who are working toward a better future for themselves and their family and because I feel supported and inspired by those who work for MVLS.

• Why should other tax professionals do pro bono?

As attorneys we are entrusted with a skillset that is needed by many to change their lives for the better, and the least we can do, in recognition of that trust, is give a small portion of our time assisting those who need it the most.