Natalie Jean is an Assistant Attorney General with the Office of the Attorney General in the Department of General Services, working in procurement law. Natalie takes cases with MVLS through the Stephen H. Sachs Pro Bono Program and primarily accepts estate law cases.

Last week, we sat down with Natalie to discuss her experience with MVLS.

---

What is your favorite part of volunteering with MVLS?

I will say my favorite part is actually the training materials that MVLS provides, as well as the staff.

Sometimes, as attorneys, we take on subject matters that we are not experts in, and that can cause some hesitancy when considering a pro bono case. My favorite part of MVLS is that they provide guidance and training materials to give you all of the tools necessary to execute with confidence and take on a case. They make it very easy.

---

What is a memory from volunteering that has been impactful to you?

The most impactful experience would have to be the clinics, specifically the My Home, My Deed, My Legacy clinic.

I had a pro bono case that I was working on and needed office hours, so I had the opportunity to attend a clinic to meet my client. I was so impressed and taken aback to see so many attorneys helping the surrounding community and Marylanders in real time.

Seeing that level of impact — strengthening the community and understanding what it means to serve — is something I will never forget. It made me realize I am part of a bigger picture.

I used to think I was just taking on a case here and there, working behind a desk or responding to emails. But to actually see the work being done in person made me realize I have to keep doing this because I am serving a purpose.

---

Tell us the story of a case you have had recently

I’ll start by saying that preparing a last will and testament is a difficult subject — no one wants to talk about death.

I had a case where a woman wanted to leave certain property to her children. After I provided a draft, she called me about two weeks later and said, “You know what, Miss Natalie, I’m actually going to change everything because my children are getting on my nerves.”

We laughed, and she shared more about her situation and the family dynamics involved.

For me, it was a breath of fresh air. Most of the time, working on wills requires a lot of compassion and sensitivity, but in this case, we were able to have a conversation and even laugh together. I updated her will and sent a new draft.

A few days later, she reconsidered again, and we talked through it. Ultimately, we finalized her will in a way that reflected her wishes.

I appreciated this case because it was different. It was an opportunity to connect with someone navigating real-life situations, and it reminded me how personal this work can be.

---

Why have you continued to volunteer with MVLS?

The staff.

I mentioned this earlier, but I continue to volunteer because of the MVLS staff and attorneys. Everyone is dedicated and committed to serving the Maryland community, and it’s meaningful to share that common purpose.

It’s also nice to build professional relationships outside of my day-to-day work. This is a different pace, and that’s something I value.

---

Has working with MVLS made you appreciate anything more about being a lawyer?

What I’ve always wanted to do as an attorney is give back and pay it forward.

MVLS has provided that opportunity for me. It’s empowering — I have the degree, the license, and the education, but MVLS gives me the opportunity to use those tools in a way that aligns with what I’ve always wanted to do.

---

What is one piece of advice you would give to a new volunteer?

Lead with empathy.

That means truly understanding the community you are serving. Pro bono work often involves individuals who are underrepresented, vulnerable, or navigating sensitive situations.

Leading with empathy means knowing your client, having meaningful conversations, and breaking down complex legal terms so they are understandable. It’s about being personable and walking alongside your client through the process.

I often think about how I would want my own family members to be treated by an attorney — my parents, my grandmother. Representation matters. Being seen and heard matters.

That is the most important advice I would give to anyone considering pro bono service.

---

What is your fondest memory related to MVLS?

My fondest memory is actually my very first case.

There was a significant language barrier — my client was Mandarin-speaking — and I didn’t know what to expect or how it would turn out. MVLS provided training, guidance, and a translator, which made all the difference.

I was able to communicate effectively with my client every step of the way.

When we finally completed her case, she repeatedly said “xiexie,” which means thank you. Hearing that, and having the translator share her gratitude, was incredibly meaningful.

That experience taught me that gratitude is universal. Even across language barriers, the appreciation for being heard and supported is the same.

It’s a memory I will never forget.

---

Get Involved

If you are interested in volunteering with MVLS, check out our online Pro Bono Portal to view available cases or sign up to get involved.

---

Written by Volunteer Coordinator Etta Moen