Through Husch Blackwell’s partnership with the Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis, we are changing how some of the historically excluded populations in our community access attorneys and the legal system. Husch Blackwell’s Pro Bono Legal Intake Clinic demonstrates our commitment to protecting our clients' rights by connecting attorneys to individuals in need of legal services who might not otherwise have the opportunity to engage these services.
Case overview
Gennie Mae Franks is a ninety-year-old widow, and although her mind and body are remarkably strong, her daughter, Carolyn Harris, has taken an increasingly active role in helping Gennie Mae manage her personal affairs. Gennie Mae recognized that it was in her and her family’s best interest to consider what estate planning documents she may need.
How Husch Blackwell helped
Gennie Mae met with Husch Blackwell attorneys through our Pro Bono Legal Intake Clinic at the Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis. After engaging Gennie Mae, Husch Blackwell attorney Samuel Brittingham drafted a comprehensive durable power of attorney designating Carolyn as Gennie Mae’s attorney-in-fact and filed such power of attorney with the appropriate authorities. This gives Gennie Mae the peace of mind and security of knowing that someone can manage her affairs if she is unable to.
Pro Bono Legal Intake Clinic
In the Pro Bono Legal Intake Clinic, led by Aleks Rushing and Shaunessy Carr, Husch Blackwell attorneys across all practice specialties and industry groups volunteer hundreds of hours each year to meet with neighbors regarding their potential legal needs on a pro bono basis and then assist in the process of finding solutions to address the legal issue presented. In 2023 alone, Husch Blackwell has provided legal services to dozens of low-income clients in St. Louis.