This month our CLA spotlight is shining bright on one of our most passionate board members, Patrick Wooten. Patrick is currently a Principal at Duffy and Young, LLC and has been involved with CLA since we were founded in 2016. We spent a few moments connecting with Patrick about his experience as a Board Member.
Why did you get involved with CLA?
When they were starting CLA, Sally Newman and Adair Burroughs asked me to join the Board and persuaded me that a sliding scale non-profit law firm was a great idea that would address a critical need in our community, and they also persuaded me that being on the Board of CLA was a meaningful and logical way for me to give back to the community.
What has been the most rewarding aspect of your involvement?
The most rewarding aspect of my involvement with CLA has been hearing the stories of CLA clients who were facing a difficult issue at a critical point in their lives and whose interests were protected because CLA represented them.
Why is access to justice for all people important?
It is important to me because, as a lawyer, I frequently see how consequential legal representation can be to a client, and I see how it can even change the trajectory of a client's life in some instances. Seeing this makes me realize how easily a person's life can be derailed if he or she cannot afford a lawyer at a critical moment.
We are so grateful for Patrick’s service to our community and to CLA!
Charleston Legal Access is Charleston's first nonprofit, sliding-scale law firm. We do not provide free legal services, but we will work at a price that those of moderate means can afford. Hourly rates are determined on an individual basis by a client's income and family size. Our initial screening and phone consultations with an attorney are completely free. In-person, 1-2 hour case consultations and limited assistance sessions are available for a flat fee of $50-$100.
With client fees only covering 25% of our operational expenses and a rise in demand for services, we are seeking like-minded partners to support our cause. Help us expand access to justice and legal representation by making a tax-deductible donation below.