Baker Donelson attorney Matthew S. Mulqueen has been recognized as a 2021 Champion of Justice by the Memphis Bar Association's (MBA's) Access to Justice Committee. Mr. Mulqueen was honored for his pro bono service to the community, alongside other Access to Justice Awards recipients, during the Virtual Pro Bono CLE and Awards Ceremony on October 29.
Mr. Mulqueen, a shareholder in Baker Donelson's Memphis office, was recognized for his work to ensure access to justice through his chairmanship of the board of directors of the Community Legal Center, his chairmanship of Baker Donelson's Memphis office Pro Bono Committee, and his individual pro bono legal representation of clients in various immigration matters.
"Matt has a truly servant heart and exemplifies Baker Donelson's tenured pro bono successes," says Sam Bowman, Baker Donelson's Pro Bono Shareholder. "We are fortunate to have him not only in service to the Memphis community but also in his capacity as our Firm's Memphis office Pro Bono Committee Chair."
"It is a joy to celebrate those that freely give their time and talents to help the most vulnerable in our community," says Access to Justice Committee Chair Danielle Woods. "This year's Champions of Justice all exemplify what it means to ensure that everyone has access to justice."
The Access to Justice Committee is a partnership between the Memphis Bar Association, Memphis Area Legal Services, the Community Legal Center and private attorneys with the mission to provide legal aid and education to under-resourced members of our community.
The MBA's Access to Justice Committee began recognizing attorneys as Champions of Justice in 2017. Mr. Mulqueen was among the first Champions of Justice recipients. When selecting the recipients, the committee considers the work and service provided during that calendar year and the nominee’s overall commitment to access to justice.
This year the individual attorney awards were named in honor of Melanie R. Yelder who passed away this summer. Ms. Yelder, an original recipient of the Champion of Justice award in 2017, was a regular volunteer at the Second Saturday Legal Advice Clinics and the courthouse clinics and was known by clients and those in the legal community for her compassion.
About the MBA
The MBA is a voluntary professional organization of lawyers, judges, law students and legal executives. The MBA is committed to the development and growth of the Memphis legal community. Additionally, it supports awareness of the legal system, promotes social justice, and provides help to under-resourced neighbors. The MBA serves its members, its profession, and the public by defending liberty and delivering justice.