Volunteer of the Month – May 2024

Marissa Temple – Temple Injury Law

Marissa came from Hawaii to attend UNLV, specifically to participate in UNLV’s debate team. She attended the William S. Boyd School of Law, and she’s entering her 20^th year as an attorney. Marissa has worked in civil defense until recently, and she now works at Temple Injury Law with her husband, Jeff. Outside of her career, Marissa enjoys trail running and hiking with her dog, as well as spending time with her husband and two kids.

Marissa first became involved with the Legal Aid Center of Southern Nevada during law school, and she has continued her involvement for the past 20 years. She particularly enjoys participating in the Ask-A-Lawyer program because she loves helping people with limited means to navigate the legal system. The reason Marissa went to law school was to provide a voice for people who have been wronged, and she loves the work she does with Legal Aid because it gives her that opportunity.

While Marissa has had many memorable clients over the years, she told us about a case she had where an auto body shop owner took her client’s money, stole his vehicle, and fled. Thanks to her vigorous legal advocacy, she was able to locate and sue the owner. Her client recovered the full cost of the repairs, the full cost of the vehicle, and all of his court costs. With the money he received, her client was able to buy a brand new car—just in time for the arrival of his first child. Even though that case happened over 15 years ago, Marissa still keeps in touch with that client to this day. The bond they share from Marissa’s pro bono representation in his case will never fade away.

For her dedication and commitment to pro bono, we honor Marissa as our May 2024 Volunteer of the Month.