David Creagan

David Creagan is a Partner in the Philadelphia office and General Counsel to the Firm. His bio is available here.
Tell us about your recent pro bono experience.
For the past few years, in conjunction with the Senior Law Center, I have helped a number of Philadelphia’s senior citizens to plan for the future by drafting simple wills, living wills, and financial and healthcare powers of attorney.
Most of my pro bono work has been assisting refugees, asylum-seekers, and immigrants to legalize their status in the U.S. Recently, during the pandemic, I helped a client earn her U.S. citizenship. Ten years ago, I won political asylum in the U.S. for her husband, followed by legal permanent residency and then, five years later, his U.S. citizenship. I’m now helping the family secure an immigrant visa for her ailing mother in Ethiopia so that she can reside with them in the Philadelphia area.
Why is pro bono service important to you?
It’s a wonderful and appropriate way for lawyers to give back to their communities. It’s personally rewarding to help seniors assure that their assets will be distributed according to their wishes and that they receive appropriate medical care in their final years. And I have been proud to help individuals realize their dreams of becoming American citizens and creating better lives for themselves and their families in the U.S.
What advice do you have for lawyers who want to get involved in pro bono service?
I encourage all lawyers to find a meaningful way to serve those who do not have the resources to pay for the legal help that they need and deserve. There are many ways to do that and many organizations with clients that need legal services.