Posted April 17, 20239:00 am
Giving back and supporting one’s neighbors is a fundamental facet of fostering a strong community; this principle has long guided Dave Hopkins’ approach to the law. “Any country that offers opportunity requires work from those who are fortunate enough to receive that opportunity. As attorneys, we have a unique opportunity to provide what are often incredibly expensive services for free to those who need it most.”
Dave found the perfect opportunity to act on this belief after joining Benesch Friedlander Coplan & Aronoff LLP’s Commercial Litigation and Construction Practice Group, where he found himself surrounded by kindred spirits as his colleagues encouraged volunteering with Legal Aid.
Participating in Brief Advice Clinics and Legal Aid’s Take a Case program has enabled Dave to leverage his skillset to complement his passion for philanthropy. Serving others is not a secondary goal for Dave; it is core to his understanding of our duty as attorneys: “I view it as an obligation to do my part to alleviate the suffering of those who have been routinely and systematically oppressed. It could easily have been me on the other side of the table.”
Dave’s selfless outlook and deep consideration of what one ought to do when given opportunity has led him to develop a fulfilling balance in his life between work and philanthropy, with a special focus on aiding those who have been victims of systemic racism, sexism, poverty, and disenfranchisement.
Legal Aid provides guidance, training, and support at every step along the way for volunteers, ensuring that volunteer lawyers never feel out of their depth as they assist clients in areas that are typically distinct from those attorneys’ primary practice area. This presents an opportunity for attorneys at every stage of their career to expand their knowledge base in a way that betters their community.
“Once you decide participating in the Volunteer Lawyers Program is for you, just jump in and get started. There are so many great folks who will teach you the ropes. You’ll be astonished at the good you can do. I know I was.”
Legal Aid salutes the hard work of our pro bono volunteers. To get involved, visit our website, or email probono@lasclev.org.