12/01/2023
KCMBF’s Military Matters is proud to shine the December Pro Bono Spotlight on Christopher R. Scott of The Christopher R. Scott Law Office. We asked Christopher about himself, and here's what he had to say:
-How did you initially learn about the program and get involved?
"I first learned about the program from being involved in KCMBA and speaking with other attorneys about their experience."
-Do you have anyone in your family or friends that served in the military?
"I have a handful of close family and friends who have served in the military. My grandfather served in the Korean War. I know multiple people who served in Iraq and Afghanistan."
-What has been your experience so far?
"It's been a great experience. It's humbling how appreciative veterans are of us helping them. Before opening my own criminal defense practice, I was a state prosecutor in Leavenworth County, KS, which is home to a very large VA hospital. Unfortunately, there were many veterans who were the defendants. It hit me as a prosecutor about the struggles many veterans have, particularly when they come home. "There has to be a better way to help the vets" often crossed my mind."
-Could you tell us about a particular case/referral you’ve taken on?
"There is no particular case that jumps out, but I've helped multiple people with criminal cases they were charged in."
-How did you first decide you wanted to be an attorney and get into the legal field?
"My undergraduate degree in business administration from the University of Kansas. I thought about law school in undergrad, but wasn't 100% sure I wanted to go so I worked for four years. At the time I was in my mid 20s and single, thought that if I'm going to go to law school, do it now. I wanted to have more options in my career. Studied for the LSAT, applied to a handful of schools and the rest is history. It's cliche, but being in the legal field, and particularly working as a prosecutor and criminal defense attorney has allowed me to have a significant impact on communities and the lives of my clients."
-Does your firm have a program or mission to encourage pro bono service? How do they support you in this work?
"I'm a solo attorney but my parents were pretty big on volunteering in the community, and helping others when they had the chance. "If you are in a position in life to help others, you do it." My dad still sits on multiple boards for charities and not for profit organizations. Let's face it, attorneys are far from free and I like the Military Matters program because it gives veterans access to some great attorneys."
-Can you tell us a bit about your family?
"My mothers is a retired kindergarten teacher and my dad actually still works. I've lived in the KC area for over 20 years (with a three year move back to Lawrence for law school mixed in there). I have two daughters, 7 and 5 years old."
-What do you enjoy doing with your free time? Any hobbies?
"Free time...huge sports fan. Chiefs, Royals and KU. I like to exercise, and will do three 5 mile runs per week. Love exploring KC with my daughters. They particularly like coming to "daddy's office in Kansas City" which is in the Crossroads. I also enjoy traveling, and enjoying one of the several breweries and cocktail bars around my office."
-Anything else you'd want to share with other lawyers about volunteering? Why they should get involved? Any advice?
"I encourage every attorney to give back in some way. Even if not pro bono, significantly reducing fees for certain people. Or simply volunteer. Kansas City has many worthy organizations that simply need your time, and they are SO appreciative. For example, I've been involved with Operation Breakthrough since 2013, along with other members of KCMBA."
Thank you, Christopher, for your dedication to KCMBF’s Military Matters and for giving back!
Are you a lawyer interested in joining the Military Matters Legal Team? Would you like a chance to be featured in the Military Matters ? Follow this link to join Military Matters: https://legal.militarymatterskc.org/
