We’re proud to recognize Samuel Baldwin, Jr., as the Volunteer of the Month. Read on to learn more about Samuel and their experience as an MVLS volunteer. 

Why do you choose to volunteer with MVLS? 
Volunteering in the Southern Maryland community has been very important to me for almost forty years. I know that the legal profession has provided me with many advantages. I am grateful for what my community has given to me and volunteering my service is one way I can give back to the community.

Do you have any stand out stories?
I cannot say if there is any single case that stands out as being more significant or more rewarding than any other. However, the clients that I assist through MVLS are by and large extremely grateful for the services that I provide.

What is your favorite part about volunteering with MVLS?
As Lawyers, we know through training and experience the statutes, case law, and court room procedures like the back of our hands. First time Litigants trying to navigate the paperwork and procedures associated with litigation are lost, confused, and frustrated. In short, our legal system works better, and the results are more equitable when pro-se Litigants are offered the Services of an MVLS Volunteer Attorney.

Why should other attorneys do pro bono?
I would encourage other attorneys to offer their services through the MVLS. Cases referred by MVLS are, from my point of view as the lawyer, generally are not as demanding as the typical cases I take. The issues from my point of view may not be as complicated and the resolution of the case is almost always easily foreseeable from the outset. From the point of view of the client, you are a miracle worker. And, while this might be an overused expression, I think that volunteering legal services through the MVLS to our fellow Brothers and Sisters in the community is just simply ”the right thing to do.”

Where do you see the Impact of civil legal services in the next ten years?
Lawyers will always play an important role in maintaining order in society. There will always be members of the community who can afford to buy our services; but there will also always be members in the community who cannot. If there is going to be equal justice for all, MVLS is going to need volunteer attorneys who are willing to step up, assist and represent clients, and expect nothing in return from their client beyond gratitude.