Joseph Barron joined HVL as the Houston Hunton Pro Bono Fellow in August 2024. In this role, he supports pro bono initiatives at Hunton
and works as a staff attorney at HVL. Joe leads the Low-Income Taxpayer Clinic and serves as a mentor to volunteer attorneys handling record-clearing cases.
We asked Joe to share some insights into his experience so far.
What skills have you gained through your work with HVL?
Through my work with Hunton and Houston Volunteer Lawyers, I’ve developed a strong foundation in managing pro bono initiatives, mentoring volunteer attorneys, and building partnerships that expand access to justice. Balancing direct client representation with strategic support for broader pro bono efforts has equipped me with the practical skills and leadership experience necessary to build and sustain impactful in-house pro bono programs.
How has your perspective on access to justice changed since working with HVL?
I used to think access to justice was about big wins—major court rulings that make headlines. But my perspective has shifted. Access to justice isn’t just about changing laws at the top—it’s about showing up for everyday people facing everyday problems. It starts at the individual level. Helping someone seal a criminal record, fight an eviction, or navigate the legal system when they can’t afford a lawyer is access to justice. And it matters. As attorneys, we have to remind ourselves: just because someone can’t pay for legal help doesn’t mean their issue is less important. Justice shouldn’t come with a price tag. If we want a truly just society, we have to make sure it’s accessible to everyone—not just those who can afford it.
Want to learn about the LITC?
Register to attend HVL’s upcoming CLE on May 9th: Webinar Registration – Zoom
