The Justice & Diversity Center (JDC) is pleased to recognize Robert Fletcher as Volunteer of the Month for July. Fletcher has been a frequent and integral volunteer for JDC’s Consumer Project at the now bi-monthly Consumer Debt Defense and Education Clinic (CDDEC).
A California native, Fletcher has worked as an attorney in a wide range of jobs focusing on litigation and corporate transactions. In 2009, he started his own firm, Fletcher Law Practice, in San Francisco where he assists startup businesses in formation and raising of funds and works as well with nonprofit organizations.
Fletcher started volunteering for JDC to use his litigation experience and draw on his past successes defending clients in consumer related cases. “I wanted to learn more about the industry, and I always enjoy volunteering activities.”
Fletcher has counseled multiple Consumer Project clients facing trials, helping them to obtain dismissals or successful settlements. One such client was facing three collection lawsuits after a period of unemployment. She had intended to file for bankruptcy but as trial approached, was unable to afford it even though she was working two jobs. Robert advised the client on how to approach the first trial appearance. During the appearance, thanks to Fletcher’s excellent advice, the client was able to get the debt-buyer plaintiff to dismiss. Other volunteers later helped successfully resolve the client’s remaining two cases.
Fletcher’s favorite aspect of volunteering for JDC is helping the underdogs. He says the best reward of volunteering is “knowing that I helped someone sleep a little better that night.” The balance of business and public service is crucial to Fletcher. “So long as my business provides for my family and I am able to help others navigate the legal system, I will be happy with my profession.”
When not volunteering or working, he spends most of his free time helping care for his newborn son.
JDC’s Consumer Project offers volunteer attorneys free training with CLE credit, supervision, and the opportunity to help low-income consumers facing debt collection actions. If you’d like to get involved, email probono@sfbar.org.
