Spotlight: Patrick Keel
By Jody Scheske, VLS Board Member
Former State District Judge Patrick Keel tells a unique story involving his law practice and long service as a pro bono attorney for Volunteer Legal Services - both his first and last trials were VLS cases!
His last trial was a landlord-tenant dispute in which he picked a jury and obtained a verdict for his VLS client. Judge Keel believes that VLS cases - and, by extension, other pro bono work - can provide terrific courtroom and client experience for young lawyers. "The benefit from trying a VLS case is so much greater than attending a CLE presentation, because it is actually your case and you can try it on your own," says Keel. What's more, VLS attorneys interface directly with their clients, unlike today's law practice in most firms, where associates have reduced client contact.
Keel handled both landlord-tenant and family law cases for VLS during his years as a practicing attorney at Baker Botts, before his appointment to the 345th District Court. And during his judicial service, Judge Keel regularly heard cases at VLS evening legal clinics. Currently, Keel donates his experience as a mediator to resolve VLS matters.
VLS is grateful for Patrick Keel's long dedication to VLS pro bono clients. At all stages of his career, Keel serves as a great example of our common obligation to donate legal services to the poor and underserved in our community.
