Volunteer Spotlight: Timothy C. Nash, Jr.

How did you get started volunteering with us? I began volunteering with the CBJC when I was seeking admission to the NY State Bar.  In addition to passing the bar examination, New York State required 50 hours of pro bono legal services.  Since I have always helped others, fulfilling this requirement was not a problem.  I just wanted my services to focus on an area I’m passionate about: small business. My search landed me at the Neighborhood Entrepreneur Law Project, and I’ve been volunteering ever since!   

What inspires or motivates you about doing pro bono work? My dad and other family members were small business owners, so supporting entrepreneurs like them is personal to me. Seeing the motivation that a small business owner has after receiving helpful legal advice motivates me to do pro bono legal work.  The business owner’s motivation can turn into economic success for themselves and their community, which inspires me. 

What has been your favorite or proudest moment as a volunteer? (Or, what is a moment that has particularly stood out to you?): Wow, there have been so many, but helping an owner of a small construction company in Brooklyn, NY stands out to me.  When we met, the owner had a few employees and contracts. I was able to advise him quite a bit about how he could shield his personal assets from risk by following appropriate governance process for his entity, incorporating some enhancements to his contracts, and exploring affordable business insurance options. The owner was empowered by the information and motivated to enhance his risk management practices while growing his business!  

Why do you find this work to be important in our current world? This work is important in the current world because small business owners, who might have limited financial means, play a crucial role in powering our economy. Sometimes these business owners cannot afford competent legal representation amidst other costs they face.  In my opinion, this exposes the businesses to unnecessary legal risk, which could adversely affect them and the communities they serve. 

How has doing this work affected you and/or your legal practice? This work has had a positive effect on me.  I remain motivated by the courage of the small business owners, enjoy collaborating with my fellow colleagues, and appreciate the opportunity to remain skilled in an area of law that I do not work on daily, but still find interesting. 

What would you tell someone who hasn’t volunteered with CBJC but is thinking about starting? 

Cast your fears aside and jump in to help the community! 

What song do you currently have on repeat? Killer Joe.  An oldie, but goodie, by the late, great Quincy Jones! 

Interested in volunteering? Visit our “Do Pro Bono” page for more information.