BALTIMORE – Maryland Volunteer Lawyers Service (MVLS), the largest provider of pro bono legal services to low-income Marylanders, today announced the election of three new board members – Payal Amin, Angela Russell, and Rebecca Sheppard.  

MVLS’ Board of Directors is responsible for governance and directing the organization’s strategic plan to deliver life changing pro bono legal services to Marylanders with limited income. Committed to advancing MVLS’ mission, board members actively contribute through program investment and volunteerism, fostering vital support for clients, staff, and community partners alike. 

Payal Amin, currently serves as Senior Manager, Human Resources at the Exelon Corporation. Amin expressed her excitement to join MVLS, stating, “I am honored to join the MVLS board of directors because it allows me to engage more deeply with a cause I am very passionate about—ensuring access to justice for all. This role gives me the opportunity to collaborate with a dedicated team of professionals committed to making a substantial impact in our community. I look forward to contributing to the strategic vision of MVLS as we work together to advocate for a fair legal system that is free of injustice and equitably serves underrepresented Marylanders. I am thrilled to be part of an organization that makes such a profound difference in people’s lives.” 

Angela Russell, Partner at Wilson Elser, joins the board, and shared the link between economic disparities in the legal system and MVLS’ mission. She shared, ” I have seen firsthand the impact that lack of resources and access to services can have on communities of color and economically disadvantaged individuals. I believe that MVLS provides a bridge and lifeline to those who may otherwise fall victim to the economic disparities that exist in the community. The services that are provided, can have a life changing impact on individuals and their families.” 

Rebecca Sheppard, Partner at Frost Law, explains her enthusiasm to join the board. Sheppard said, “Joining the MVLS Board of Directors is a privilege. I am inspired by MVLS’s dedication to delivering pro bono legal services and promoting justice. I am excited to contribute to the organization’s continued success and to work alongside such a talented and committed group of individuals.” 

About Maryland Volunteer Lawyers Service (MVLS)

Maryland Volunteer Lawyers Service (MVLS) removes barriers to justice through free civil legal help, community engagement, and advocacy for equitable laws. The organization matches clients with volunteer lawyers, tax professionals and staff attorneys who represent them in a wide range of consumer finance, family and housing situations, including foreclosure, bankruptcy, divorce/custody, deed changes, as well as income tax disputes, estate planning, and criminal record relief. MVLS advocates for racial equity in Maryland’s legal system and works in concert with community partners to move toward a fair legal system that is free of injustice and equitably serves underrepresented Marylanders. For more information about MVLS, please visit www.mvlslaw.org.

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Media Contacts:
Sandy Arnette
Arnette Media
phone: 410-274-5975
email: sandy@arnettemedia.com

Chandler Walters
Maryland Volunteer Lawyers Service (MVLS)
phone: 443-451-4095
email: cwalters@mvlslaw.org