Northwest Suburban Bar Association fifth annual President's Volunteer Appreciation Luncheon
The Northwest Suburban Bar Association honored its' volunteers at the Fifth Annual President's Volunteer Appreciation Luncheon on Thursday, October 8th at Ditka's in Arlington Heights.
Ronald F. Wittmeyer, Jr., President of the NWSBA, welcomed several Cook County Third District judges, as well as NWSBA members who volunteered as court facilitators, paternity court facilitators, pro bono desk volunteers and legal self-help center volunteers. He thanked everyone for their time, and expressed his desire to see more attorneys donating their expertise to those in our community who might not otherwise have access to legal services.
"We, as attorneys, have a unique skill and knowledge, and by doing pro bono work, we give back something to our community to people who simply cannot afford a lawyer, said Wittmeyer. "The members of the NWSBA go above and beyond. Everyone's effort is highly important, and we have donated over 500 hours in group contribution during the 2014/15 fiscal year."
The Honorable William O. Maki, Presiding judge of the Third Municipal District, Cook County Circuit Court recognized all of the volunteers, and acknowledged the fact that the number of paternity calls and civil cases are increasing at the courthouse.
"We appreciate the effort by everyone in this room. Doing pro bono work that truly helps someone is not only refreshing and satisfying, but should be a part of our profession," said Maki.
Janet Maxwell-Wickett, Co-Chair & Coordinator of the Pro Bono Committee at the NWSBA, presented the recognitions of this years' outstanding legal volunteers.
"Volunteering and giving back to the community is a great way for young lawyers, new lawyers and seasoned attorneys that wish to increase their knowledge in a different area of practice gain experience, while providing a vital resource to the public," said Maxwell-Wickett.
Five individuals who donated more than 20 hours of pro bono service were recognized as Outstanding Legal Service volunteers for 2015. Honorees included Sandra Stermer Coscino and Joel Weiner, who were present, and Patti Levinson, Steven Koukios and Fedor Kozlov who were unable to attend.
The purpose of the NWSBA Pro Se desk is to provide answers to those with simple legal questions, and the court and paternity facilitator assists both judges and pro se litigants move their case forward in a more efficient and timely manner.