Montana Legal Services Association (MLSA) and the University of Montana School of Law are proud to announce third year law student Emily Lucas as this year’s recipient of the Montana Law Student Pro Bono Service Award. The award-including a $500 check donated by Crowley Fleck, PLLP- was given to Ms. Lucas on Friday, October 18th at the Missoula County Courthouse.
A deserving candidate, Ms Lucas has donated an estimated 200 hours to volunteer legal work outside classroom over the last three years. Her involvement in pro bono has ranged from implementing a Domestic Violence clinic, working with the Crime Victim’s Advocate Office, DOVES, the YWCA, and Rubin & Ries Law Offices. Emily’s passion when it comes to the law is to work with victims of domestic violence. She says access to legal services is important in all areas, but when domestic violence is present, civil legal representation can create an avenue for victims to leave. “The ability to leave reduces the overall prevalence of violence within a community.”
Although pro bono benefits the community, Ms. Lucas says she feels just as rewarded about the experience as those she has helped. “I think it’s important to remember that providing pro bono services is not only beneficial to those who are served, it is personally rewarding. It can provide an unparalleled opportunity for career development through direct supervision by practicing attorneys and meaningful client interactions.”
The Montana Law Student Pro Bono Service Award is handed out annually in October to a third year law student who has demonstrated extraordinary commitment to public service and pro bono legal work during their law school career.