By Candace Carlyon
I have 40 years of experience representing businesses in litigation and financial restructuring. I love what I do! From a small business to a multi-million-dollar conglomerate, I am excited to find ways to make businesses work. Plus, I like to win. But in the last few years I’ve discovered the rewards of working for actual people.
Our office takes pro bono bankruptcy cases for Spanish-speaking clients. The clients have incredible stories of overcoming hardship, raising families, and striving to do the right thing. Our contribution makes a real difference in their lives. No fee has the impact of a tearful hug from a grateful client whose life you have affected in a positive way.
When my dear friend, Diane Fearon, became Executive Director of the Southern Nevada Senior Law Program, there was a six-month waiting list to complete a durable health care power of attorney. I convinced (strong-armed) many of my colleagues to sign up for the first SLP “sign-a-thon” on October 22, 2022. On that day, a dozen attorneys made sure that documents, including simple wills, were completed for any clients who wanted to attend. It was chaotic and heartwarming. I continue to attend the now well-organized workshops organized by SLP pro bono director, William Voy. Attorneys review a training seminar and meet with clients for three hours to assist them in completing forms. In half a day, you earn two CLE credits and help a number of clients.
I urge all of my friends and colleagues to make today the day you sign up for a pro bono service. Participate in an SLP workshop; volunteer for an ask-a-lawyer session (by telephone, so easy) or take on a client from Nevada Legal Services; or take a Child Advocacy Program or other case from the Legal Aid Center of Southern Nevada. The fee, paid straight to your heart, is immeasurable.
About the author
Candace Carlyon has practiced in bankruptcy, financial restructuring and commercial litigation since 1986. She and her partner, Dawn Cica, formed Carlyon Cica Chtd. in 2019. She is a past president of the American Board of Certification of Bankruptcy and Creditors’ Rights Attorneys.
About the article
This article originally was submitted for Communiqué (Feb. 2026), the official publication of the Clark County Bar Association.
The Communiqué (Feb. 2026) focuses on bankruptcy law with short articles on interesting topics written by bar members for bar members. Also featured is a variety of content from the printed publication’s recurring columns and highlights on bar activities. Select content is available to read online now. See https://clarkcountybar.org/about/member-benefits/communique-2026/communique-feb-2026/.
The articles and advertisements appearing in Communiqué magazine do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the CCBA, the CCBA Publications Committee, the editorial board, or the other authors. All legal and other issues discussed are not for the purpose of answering specific legal questions. Attorneys and others are strongly advised to independently research all issues.
© 2026 Clark County Bar Association (CCBA). All rights reserved. No reproduction of any portion of this issue is allowed without written permission from the publisher. Editorial policy available upon request.