"Civil legal aid levels the playing field and prevents the wheels of justice from becoming a gristmill for the rights of those not able to afford lawyers or obtain fair and equal access to the system."

—Chris Lardiere

As a Social Work major when he arrived at the University of Dayton, Chris Lardiere knew he wanted to help those in need—but he didn’t yet know the path he would take to do so. Eager for opportunities to make a difference, he volunteered at the Dayton Free Clinic and worked with the Apathy Program at the Montgomery County Juvenile Court. Despite his good deeds, Chris says he felt like he wasn’t making much of an impact. That’s when his father suggested a career in law. Chris took the advice to heart. Fortunately, he had two UD faculty mentors who helped transform a self-described “solid C student” into law school material. 

Chris says access to civil legal aid is critical because of the growing divide between those who can access the justice system and those who cannot afford representation. If civil legal aid were not available, he says, “the vulnerable people of our population would get their rights trampled.” 

“Chris came to LASC looking to donate a significant amount of time to one of our pro bono programs,” according to Director of Pro Bono and Community Engagement Dianna Parker. “He found his perfect fit doing wills and simple estate planning with the Seniors Referral Project, which he almost singlehandedly supports by taking referrals on a weekly basis. Chris provides fantastic legal services to our clients, as exhibited by very positive client satisfaction surveys.” 

The feeling is clearly mutual as Chris relishes his work with clients. “Many of these folks are in tough situations but maintain their dignity and their sense of humor,” Chris says. “Honestly, I bug the staff for more cases.” 

When Chris isn’t working for his firm, Lardiere McNair DiNicola & Stonebrook, or volunteering with several community and civic groups, he loves spending time with his wonderful wife of 44 years, visiting with his two grandsons, playing golf with his sons and friends, hanging out with neighbors, and traveling—including a recent river cruise on the Snake and Columbia rivers. 

We congratulate Chris on his well-deserved Pro Bono Powerhouse Award, and we thank him for his steadfast commitment to making a difference in the lives of his clients! 

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!