We are excited to recognize Peter Scully of Schwabe Law Firm as ANDVSA’s May Volunteer Attorney of the Month!

Peter was introduced to ANDVSA through a colleague who had volunteered for years. After seeing a call for pro bono attorneys in an ANDVSA newsletter, he decided to get involved and quickly found the experience to be deeply rewarding.

Through his volunteer work, Peter helped a survivor in rural Alaska secure a long-term domestic violence protective order, creating meaningful safety and stability for her and her children during an incredibly difficult time. The survivor shared that Peter’s support made it possible for her family to stay in their home during a season of uncertainty and gave her the stability she needed to begin rebuilding her life.

With that support, she was able to reunite with her children, move into a new apartment, complete training for a new position, and begin working as a legal advocate supporting other survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault.

“Mr. Scully’s support didn’t just help me survive; it inspired me,” she shared.

“His dedication showed me the impact that advocacy can have, and it motivated me to give back.”

For Peter, her words were a powerful reminder of why pro bono work matters. “What may not seem like a Herculean effort for a volunteer attorney can make all the difference in the world for someone who needs help,” he shared.

While Peter’s current practice focuses almost solely on commercial litigation, he was first exposed to family law early in his career while clerking for a superior court judge. Although he had not practiced family law in many years, he found that ANDVSA’s resources and support made it easy to step in and effectively assist his client. He notes that this structure makes volunteering accessible to attorneys, even those without a family law background.

Originally from New York, Peter attended law school in Vermont with plans to become an environmental lawyer. After discovering a passion for litigation and courtroom work, he shifted his career path following his clerkship. A visit to Alaska, where he spent time backpacking in Denali with a friend, ultimately led him to make the move. Today, he practices at Schwabe Law Firm and lives in Alaska with his family.

Outside of work, Peter enjoys hiking, fishing, and bird watching, though much of his time is now spent being a dad.

For attorneys considering volunteering with ANDVSA, Peter offers simple advice: don’t be intimidated. Even without specific family law experience, your skills are valuable, and the work may become some of the most rewarding you do.

Thank you, Peter, for making a difference for a survivor!