12 | The Summation
Pro Bono
and What It Means for “Hope and Justice for All” by Colleen D. Mullen the capacity, a struggle many nonprofits face. Pro bono attorneys are a link that works towards closing the justice gap. These volunteers are ambassadors and supporters who show a passion for making their world more equitable and making a better life for their neighbors. Shelley Guy Reynolds is just that kind of attorney. Reynolds graduated from The Florida State University School of Law in 1989 and immediately began her legal career in the juvenile division at the State Attorney’s Office in Escambia County. Her time working with families and their young children made an impression on Reynolds and impacted how she supports legal aid in her career. Once she began her own practice, she could be more discerning with her time and chose to work with LSNF on both domestic violence and child delinquency cases. Without a doubt these achievements illustrate the virtues and selflessness of Reynolds; however, it is truly her unwavering support of children and vulnerable families that reflects her lifelong accomplishments. In LSNF’s nomination for The Florida Bar President’s Pro Bono Service Award, we recounted a story that so perfectly sums up her dedication to working with children.
L
IKE SO MANY OTHER LAW FIRMS, WE SEE IT ALL at Legal Services of North Florida (LSNF), from those impacted by hurricanes or a pandemic to those made victims by their own loved ones. LSNF staff are on the front lines of defending the rights of the vulnerable and giving
voice to the voiceless. Whether there’s a disaster or peace, people face legal challenges every day that shake their entire world. With well over 270,000 eligible individuals across LSNF’s 16-county service area, we serve over 6,000 individuals and families every year at LSNF. The need is greater than
In only seven months, Reynolds clocked more than 250 hours to help one child, and not just on one case, but multiple cases, battling prior injustices this particular child suffered. This child was a victim of abuse and while in the foster care system, had seen well over 50 beds. Reynolds fought to keep this child in a stable home and to make sure they didn’t land in yet another tumultuous
