"I wholeheartedly believe that we live better lives when we serve others, whether it is through donating our time, talent, or treasure, whenever and however possible."

—Sandra Carrillo

Sandra Carrillo knew early in life that she wanted to practice law. As a young person growing up in Central Florida, she saw injustices happening in her neighborhood and decided if she worked as a lawyer, she could make a difference. “I didn’t grow up in the best area, so I was exposed early on to law enforcement and the legal system, and the injustices that can sometimes happen. For me, going to law school was a way that I could help others while also building a better life for myself.”

A scholarship to The Ohio State University brought her to Columbus. After graduation, she worked for the university before enrolling in Capital University's Law School. She spent a few years working as an assistant city prosecutor with the Columbus City Attorney’s Office before starting her own practice, Carrillo Law, LLC.

Supporting her community is so important to her that she blocks time for volunteering on her calendar each week. “When I was younger, I was on the receiving end of community services. Now, I am thankful to be the one who can be of service to others,” she said. “I also wholeheartedly believe that we live better lives when we serve others, whether it is through donating our time, talent, or treasure, whenever and however possible.”

Using her legal skills to help others is rewarding because it makes such a difference in people’s lives, she added. “Clients often come in worried and uncertain about so many things, but after connecting with a volunteer like me, they are generally able to breathe a big sigh of relief knowing that they don’t have to face the process alone because they will have an attorney handle their case, or at the very minimum, they are thankful to receive legal advice.”

Sandra steps up whenever and wherever needed, said Pro Bono and Community Engagement Director Dianna Parker, “Whether it’s virtual advice clinics, Tenant Advocacy Project (TAP) clinics during the pandemic, in-person reentry events, or divorce referrals—she never hesitates to volunteer. As co-chair of the Columbus Bar Association small firm/solo practitioner committee, Sandra helped promote our pro bono programs, and her firm Carrillo Law, LLC has donated to Legal Aid—a gesture not lost on us, as she is a sole practitioner!”

Congratulations, Sandra, and thank you for your service!

Join us on October 25 at the as we present Chris and four other outstanding pro bono attorneys with awards at the 2023 Pro Bono Reception! This in-person event will be held at the new Columbus Bar Association location on West Street in Columbus. It's an opportunity to come together and recognize the incredible efforts of Legal Aid's dedicated volunteers who have provided free legal services to those in need.

Don't miss out on this special occasion! Mark your calendar and join us at the Annual Pro Bono Reception for an unforgettable evening of appreciation and gratitude. We look forward to seeing you there!

Learn More about Getting Involved with Legal Aid's Pro Bono Efforts!