Frank Turnkey is a bankruptcy, criminal, and personal injury attorney who volunteers in Baltimore City, Baltimore County, and Anne Arundel County. Frank started volunteering with us in 1999, and has taken 139 cases. Frank has worked with students from the University of Maryland law school’s bankruptcy clinic every year since its inception. He is a great supporter of pro bono, and the next generation of pro bono attorneys.

Read on to learn why Frank volunteers:

• Why do you choose to volunteer with MVLS?

I volunteer because I still view being an attorney as a profession which needs to give back, especially to those that need help in navigating the legal process which touches almost all things these days.  I also love working with the incredible staff at MVLS.  It is a joy to be able to call them colleagues and friends.  My hope is that more attorneys will participate in pro bono activities.

• Do you have any stand out stories?

The one that sticks with me to this day was a bankruptcy case that dealt with trying to discharge student loans. The case took years to conclude with a good result for the client.  Most cases I work with MVLS never take that amount of time but this case was complex and I had a great associate attorney working with me and the great staff at MVLS for assistance. 

• What is your favorite part about volunteering with MVLS?

My favorite part of the volunteering is meeting such nice clients who are truly appreciative of the work I do on their behalf. 

• Why should other attorneys do pro bono?

 Again, I think being an attorney is a privilege and allows us to navigate a complex system and make a decent, if not lucrative, living at it.  With that privilege comes the duty to give back when possible.  Pick an area you feel needs help and volunteer.  You will not regret it.