September 2021 - Pro Bono Update

As a dedicated LASC and SEOLS volunteer for over 30 years, Christopher Gallutia has long understood the vital importance of legal aid to the fabric of the justice system. In fact, since the Bankruptcy Pro Bono Program began in 2012, Chris has taken a record-setting 50 pro bono referrals from both LASC and SEOLS.

But when the pandemic struck and countless Central Ohioans were left in dire financial situations, Chris’ commitment to pro bono work became even clearer. On March 16, 2020, Melissa Linville emailed her roster of bankruptcy pro bono attorneys, telling everyone that we had canceled all in-person clinics and were pivoting to virtual advice options—all while our clients were still actively having their wages garnished.

In response, Chris immediately stepped up and volunteered to help a single mother stop an ongoing garnishment. Since then, he has taken nine additional referrals at a time when many volunteers understandably cut back on their pro bono case work.

Both personally and professionally, Chris strongly believes in the values of diversity, equity, and inclusion. Within those values, he believes in the importance of recognizing racism as a public health issue, tackling the persistent marginalization of LBGTQ+ individuals, and empowering underserved and overlooked populations.

And though the halting progress in these areas can be frustrating for him, Chris doesn’t give in to dismay. Instead, he turns his frustrations into action—and he urges other attorneys to do the same. When asked what advice he would give to potential volunteers or pro bono attorneys who have limited free time and are hesitant to get involved, Chris’ message is simple. “Do it!” he says. “Not only are you helping those who so desperately need it, but the payback for you, while not monetary necessarily, is well worth every second of effort that you put out.”

Chris has lived in Franklin County almost all his life. He graduated from Reynoldsburg High School, received his BA from The Ohio State University in Medieval History, and earned his JD from Capital University. When he’s not volunteering, Chris enjoys reading, genealogy, and collecting Columbus baseball memorabilia (before the pandemic, he worked part-time for the Columbus Clippers in the press box during games!). He also rescues stray cats and finds them homes and is a die-hard Leicester City FC backer.

We thank Chris for his outstanding volunteer work.

Fresh Start Gala Cancellation

Unfortunately, due to rising COVID-19 cases, the Legal Aid Society of Columbus has made the difficult decision to cancel the Fresh Start Gala in November. At this time of unprecedented need for access to bankruptcy relief in our community, LASC and the Fresh Start Gala committee remain committed to raising money to support the Bankruptcy Program, which provides families facing economic hardships with access to a fresh start.

In support of our bankruptcy relief efforts, we’re holding an online auction and taking donations, and we hope you’ll consider bidding on one or more of our auction items, which include Ohio State/Michigan State football tickets, a one-week vacation in Siesta Key, Florida for up to six guests, and more.

Thanks in advance for your continued support!

Check out this video we prepared for last year’s event which tells the stories of clients who were helped by our Bankruptcy Program!

Shanell, LASC Client