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May 24, 2024

Pro Bono Spotlight: Monee Hanna

This series is aimed at bringing attention to Nelson Mullins attorneys and legal staff who are committed to pro bono work as a part of their legal practice. See how they made a difference through pro bono! 

We are pleased to introduce Torrance, California partner Monee Hanna. Monee represents pharmaceutical and medical device manufacturers in intricate product liability cases nationwide. She also possesses experience in business litigation, including class actions, unfair competition claims, and antitrust actions. On top of her practice, she has demonstrated a deep commitment to the firm's pro bono efforts throughout her time at Nelson Mullins.

Why is pro bono important to you?

My most meaningful experience as a law student was a two-year legal clinic program in which we assisted the most vulnerable members of the community in obtaining critical benefits and keeping their homes. The experience not only helped me develop more practical legal skills than any classroom could provide, but also highlighted the profound impact we as lawyers can have on our communities by donating our time and services.

Describe a compelling pro bono matter in which you were or are currently involved.

Early in my career, I was fortunate to have partnered with a wonderful local pro bono organization assisting foster care families in finalizing adoptions. Each case I’ve handled involved a family who spent years navigating a labyrinth of courtrooms and government agencies for the chance to be officially recognized as the child’s parent. In one recent case, I assisted a retired gentleman in the non-relative adoption of an adorable, precocious three-year-old girl. As we chatted before the hearing, the client described his regret in not being involved in his own children’s lives and his deep gratitude for a second chance at being a parent. And like most adoption hearings, the occasion was marked with teddy bears, a photo shoot with the judge, and tears of joy.

Why do you think it’s important for the legal profession and our firm to champion pro bono?

I believe we have a professional duty to donate our legal services and ensure our communities have greater access to representation. It is critical for the legal profession and law firms to not only encourage law students, law clerks, and every member of the bar to take on pro bono, but to facilitate those opportunities. And our firm does just that.