The State Bar of Texas, the Texas Access to Justice Commission, the American Bar Association, and others proudly support National Pro Bono Celebration Week (October 25-31). Pro Bono week is an opportunity to educate the public about the good work the legal community does to improve the lives of vulnerable Texans and to encourage more individuals to get involved in pro bono support of the legal system. During the week, we will feature stories of pro bono volunteers.

Will Davidson is a 3L at Texas Tech University School of Law. He is the Texas Tech Student Bar Association 3L class president; Board of Barristers director of communication; and Texas Aggie Bar Association president.

What kind of pro bono do you do and how long have you been doing it?
I am a court-appointed special advocate (CASA). I started with CASA of the South Plains after being sworn in in March 2019.

Why is pro bono important to you?
Pro bono is important because we are in the position, have the resources, and have the ability to give back to those who need it the most. As a CASA, I was able to gather information and be the voice for children who were in a real tough spot.

What have you learned from doing pro bono?
From participating in pro bono work, I have learned that there truly is a need. Before volunteering, I was blind to this need in my community. I have learned that these situations are much more prevalent than we think, and we need to help whenever we can.

What would you say to a fellow student who is thinking about doing pro bono for the first time?
Go for it! Don’t be afraid to go out and help. As law students, we have so much going on, but if you truly want to do it, you will find the time. Balance yourself, but understand you are being bigger than yourself and are truly impacting others through your actions.

Share one of your favorite pro bono success stories.
I have been able to work two cases fully and seen children who are in a tough situation make it to better situations. I have seen a 3, 7, and 15-year-old go through different parts of their lives, but all smile and get placed with people who love them. There were lots of times at the beginning and during the case that were not so fun, but the joy at the end was worth it. My favorite parts have been the conclusion of the cases.