Pro Bono

Growing up in the farming town of Lake Panasoffkee in Florida’s heartland, Aaron Irving was influenced by his grandfather, James Veal Sr., a local politician and environmental activist who could strike up a rapport with almost anyone. “At the end of the day he just wanted to help people, and he instilled that in me as well as my father,” said Irving, who joined Jacksonville Area Legal Aid as pro bono director last fall.

Attorneys in the 4th Judicial Circuit who contributed 20 or more hours of pro bono service were honored March 24 for their commitment in promoting access to justice. Held annually at the Duval County Courthouse, the William A. Van Nortwick, Jr. Presentation of the Pins Ceremony is a luncheon wherein attorneys are recognized by their peers as well as members of the judiciary. This event is aptly named for the late William A. Van Nortwick Jr., a well-respected Jacksonville attorney and retired member of the judiciary.

What has been your biggest accomplishment over the course of your career? My biggest accomplishment so far has been receiving the 2020 Florida Young Lawyers Division's Lynn Futch award for the most productive young lawyer. This is a statewide award presented to the most productive young lawyer in the state. How are you involved in the community outside of work (board positions, etc.)? I have previously been active in the community through my involvement with the Young Lawyers Section of the Jacksonville Bar Association, where I have held various positions, including the role of president in 2020. As part of my involvement with the Young Lawyers Section I have volunteered and helped to raise money for a number of local charitable organizations that include Rethreaded, the Anthony Stinson Association for Change, Clarke School for Hearing and Speech, and Jacksonville Area Legal Aid.

What has been your biggest accomplishment over the course of your career? I have had successful outcomes and experience with trials, appeals, and cases that have been memorable, including successfully defending an appeal with the Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals for the City of Neptune Beach, successfully defending claims made against a large airline and national big box store in a variety of forums, and assisting local charities seek and obtain 501(c)(3) status. Additionally, I do rewarding work with the Jacksonville Area Legal Aid where I assist qualified individuals through the probate process after a loved one has passed away.

What inspired you to become a lawyer? In elementary school, I remember a student who was in trouble and he was not doing a good job of telling his side of the story. I decided at that point I wanted to be the voice for others. I wanted to be an advocate for others. I have not wavered.