Access Justice Brooklyn

Legal advocates for our community.

Author Archives: Development Team

  1. Press Release: Access Justice Brooklyn Announces President & CEO Departure, Appoints Interim Replacement

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    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    Thursday, December 5, 2024

    ACCESS JUSTICE BROOKLYN ANNOUNCES PRESIDENT & CEO DEPARTURE, APPOINTS INTERIM REPLACEMENT (click here to download the press release)

    Brooklyn, New York –– Access Justice Brooklyn announces the departure of President & CEO, Heidi Lee Henderson as she transitions into a new leadership position for a national organization in the nonprofit space; and appoints Senior Director of Development & Strategic Initiatives, Melissa Starr, as Interim President & CEO following the organization’s board meeting held on Wednesday, December 4, 2024. Heidi’s final day with the organization is Friday, December 6, 2024, after which Melissa will assume the Interim President & CEO role.

    For the past decade, Heidi has led Access Justice Brooklyn (AJB) through a range of transformations, most notably strengthening the organizational infrastructure, more than doubling the staff size from six to fifteen; ensuring continued flexible positioning by growing the operational budget from just under $700,000 to $2.4 million; and guiding the organization through the myriad of unique challenges brought on by the Covid-19 global pandemic. She also advanced the organization’s rebrand from the Brooklyn Bar Association Volunteer Lawyers Project to Access Justice Brooklyn in June 2022, launching a new organizational identity and a renewed mission to providing high-quality, pro bono legal services and community education to Brooklyn neighbors in need.

    “Heidi has been an extraordinary champion for people in the Brooklyn community. Her leadership over the last decade has been unparalleled, and she will be deeply missed. Thanks to Heidi’s vision, her tenacity, and the remarkable team she has built, Access Justice Brooklyn could not be better positioned to continue our mission to help ensure a more accessible legal system and equitable Brooklyn,” said Lynn Judell, AJB Board Chair.

    “Thank you to Heidi for so many years of dedicated service, for presiding over such dynamic change and growth at Access Justice Brooklyn, and for her commitment to the values that are at the core of our organization. While we are mighty sad to see her go, we wish her the very best in all her new endeavors and are sure that her next chapters will be successful,” said Stephen Z. Williamson, AJB Board Vice Chair.

    Heidi shared, “It has been an honor to have led Access Justice Brooklyn for the past ten years. I am deeply proud of the organization’s accomplishments and growth. AJB is a force in our Brooklyn community–dismantling systemic barriers to justice by providing access and assistance to underserved Brooklynites as they navigate a complex legal system. I know that our talented and compassionate staff and volunteers, with the support of our dedicated board, young professionals board, advisory board, and emeritus board, will continue to deliver critical legal services and impactful programming for years to come.” 

    Heidi continued saying the following, “I am thrilled that Melissa Starr has been named AJB’s Interim President & CEO. I know that the organization will continue to flourish under her leadership, and I look forward to seeing AJB reach impressive, new achievements.”

    “Over the past seven years, I have had the privilege of working alongside Heidi, experiencing first-hand the impact of her leadership. She has guided, strengthened, and diversified AJB over her tenure with grace, flexibility, and the Brooklyn community in her mind and heart every step of the way. As we transition into this new chapter for AJB, I am honored to accept the role and responsibilities of Interim President & CEO. I look forward to furthering my collaboration with our extraordinary board and staff, building on well-established partnerships and shared values. Together, with our dedicated volunteers, generous supporters, and range of AJB stakeholders, we will continue to advance our critical mission and vision for an equitable Brooklyn, while ensuring programmatic accessibility and responsiveness to community needs,” said Melissa Starr, Senior Director of Development & Strategic Initiatives.

    Melissa has been with the organization since 2017, working alongside Heidi and the AJB Board of Directors to plan, steer, and execute the organization’s fundraising and communications strategy as well as advance impactful and long standing philanthropic and programmatic partnerships. Melissa steps into the role of Interim President & CEO as the organization is in an exciting stage, relocating offices. AJB plans to welcome its staff, clients, volunteers, supporters, and extended community to 203 Jay Street in the upcoming new year.

    Upon Melissa’s appointment, Co-Chairs of AJB’s Board Development Committee Caroline Conway and Adam Shepherd shared the following: “Melissa has been a creative and driving force for growth and progress within AJB for the last seven years. Our organization is lucky to have such a talented and motivated team member within our existing ranks to step into the role of Interim President & CEO. Her experience, energy, and commitment will make for a smooth transition and a steady, positive path forward.”

    The AJB Board of Directors will conduct a comprehensive needs assessment and commence a search in the new year for a permanent President & CEO.

    About Access Justice Brooklyn:

    Access Justice Brooklyn partners with compassionate pro bono attorneys to provide high-quality, civil legal services that help ensure equal access to the legal system. The organization’s approach prioritizes the most basic, essential elements and experiences of human life, including housing, family stability, and subsistence income. Its proven pro bono model—recruit, train, supervise, and support—also provides flexibility to address new legal issues as they emerge. Everyone, whether an attorney or not, has a role to play in expanding access to justice.

    Visit www.accessjusticebrooklyn.org or email info@accessjusticebk.org to volunteer, donate, or find other ways to get involved.

    Press Contact:
    Melinda Garcia | Development Manager | 718-473-9205 | melinda@accessjusticebk.org

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  2. We are Moving!

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    Dear Neighbors,

    We are pleased to announce that Access Justice Brooklyn will be relocating to a new office in the upcoming New Year! We are excited to share that our new office will be in the Downtown Brooklyn area; however, beginning on Monday, November 25th, AJB staff will be working remotely while we prepare for our move.

    What does this mean for you?

    If you are an AJB client, our staff and volunteers are meeting with clients virtually and/or via telephone. In-person meetings can be arranged by appointment only. If you would like to meet in-person with your assigned attorney, please reach out to them directly.

    If you are seeking legal assistance, please note our phone and online intake has temporarily closed and will reopen on Monday, December 9th, 2024. If you are awaiting a follow-up from a recent intake, please excuse any delays.

    We are not conducting in-person intake at this time, however, you can complete our intake form online here. If you prefer to speak with AJB staff directly, our normal intake hours are Monday through Thursday from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Please call (718) 624-3894 or email us at help@accessjusticebk.org.

    Need to send us mail?

    As we transition to our new location, we have set up a temporary P.O. Box mailing address. Please direct all mail to the following address as of November 22, 2024:

    Access Justice Brooklyn
    271 Cadman Plz E Ste. 2, #22640
    Brooklyn, NY 11201

    Please note, this is only a mailing address. Should you need to meet with AJB staff in-person, please call to make an appointment. Any mail sent to our previous location at 44 Court Street will be redirected to the address above.

    Stay tuned for more updates about our move and be sure to check our website and social media for the latest information.

    We appreciate your understanding and cooperation during this transition. If you have any questions or concerns, do not hesitate to reach out to us. We are here to help!

    Warm regards,

    The Access Justice Brooklyn Team

  3. Press Release: Access Justice Brooklyn Announces the Appointment of Richa Jain to Young Professionals Board

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    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    Wednesday, November 13, 2024

    ACCESS JUSTICE BROOKLYN ANNOUNCES THE APPOINTMENT OF A NEW YOUNG PROFESSIONALS BOARD MEMBER (click here to download the press release)

    Brooklyn, New York –– Access Justice Brooklyn announces the appointment of a new member to its Young Professionals Board (YPB) following the organization’s Board meeting held on Tuesday, October 8, 2024.

    Joining Access Justice Brooklyn’s YPB is Richa Jain, Pharmaceuticals Transformations Senior Associate, PwC. Upon her appointment, Richa shared the following:

    “I was strongly drawn to Access Justice Brooklyn’s mission to provide pro bono services to my community in Brooklyn, especially in family stabilization matters. I value integrity and honorability above all else and believe Access Justice Brooklyn’s purpose transforms lives and families from the ground up. As a Brooklynite, I want to be part of this broader mission and apply my leadership and consulting skills to making an impact — one person at a time.”

    Richa’s passion for her Brooklyn neighbors and her commitment to community advocacy make her an invaluable addition to the organization. “We are excited to welcome Richa to the YPB! Her dedication to creating lasting change in her community will undoubtedly enhance Access Justice Brooklyn’s mission to create a more equitable Brooklyn,” said Michelle Tuma, Access Justice Brooklyn YPB co-chair.

    Access Justice Brooklyn’s YPB was established to support the organization’s Board of Directors and its goal of making the legal system more accessible and equitable for low-income Brooklyn residents. The YPB unites rising talent professionals across the legal and non-legal sectors who are motivated to utilize their time, experience, and diverse skill sets in service of Access Justice Brooklyn’s mission. The YPB serves as an advisor to and agent of the Board of Directors, driving an array of activities including community outreach and program expansion with a current focus on financial literacy, event planning and fundraising, and providing strategic guidance to the organization.

    Richa joins a 8-member Young Professionals Board including: Michelle D. Tuma, Winston & Strawn LLP, co-chair; Lisa V. Zivkovic, Ph.D, Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP, co-chair; Cooper Bellinson, Ares Management Corporation; Vidya Dindiyal, Thompson Coburn LLP; Jacob Godshall, GIC; Keren Goldshlager, Meta; Aaron Kahen, Fried, Frank, Harris, Shriver & Jacobson LLP; and Wendy Li, BSE Global.

    In Access Justice Brooklyn’s continuing strategic growth efforts, the organization currently seeks to add several new YPB members including dedicated and socially conscious young professionals with a deep commitment to access to justice and who bring innovative ideas and have a passion for helping underserved communities in Brooklyn. Strong leadership skills, a collaborative spirit, and a network of connections within the legal, corporate, or nonprofit sectors are highly valued.

    About Access Justice Brooklyn:

    Access Justice Brooklyn partners with compassionate pro bono attorneys to provide high-quality, civil legal services that help ensure equal access to the legal system. The organization’s approach prioritizes the most basic, essential elements and experiences of human life, including housing, family stability, and subsistence income. Its proven pro bono model—recruit, train, supervise, and support—also provides flexibility to address new legal issues as they emerge. Everyone, whether an attorney or not, has a role to play in expanding access to justice. Visit www.accessjusticebrooklyn.org or email info@accessjusticebk.org to volunteer, donate, or find other ways to get involved.

    Press Contact:
    Melissa Starr | Senior Director of Development & Strategic Initiatives | 718-473-9209 | melissa@accessjusticebk.org

  4. National Pro Bono Week 2024

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    National Pro Bono Week takes place every year in October and celebrates the pro bono spirit of the many professionals who devote their skills and expertise to support nonprofits like Access Justice Brooklyn all around the world!

    Access Justice Brooklyn thanks our dedicated volunteers who provide essential legal services year-round. Your generosity supports our efforts to create a more accessible legal system for those in need. We look forward to continuing to work together in creating a more equitable Brooklyn where everyone knows their rights and has access to legal support!

    Join us in celebrating Pro Bono Week and learn more about our amazing volunteers including Matthew Treiber, Rachel L. Kaylie, and Tara Moss who were honored at our Volunteer Recognition Event held this past summer; view our list of impactful law firm and corporate pro bono partners; attend our upcoming virtual trainings (see below), and start volunteering today!

    Access Justice Brooklyn partners with compassionate pro bono attorneys and cross industry professionals to provide high-quality, civil legal services and community education that help ensure equal access to the legal system.

    Join the AJB Volunteer Community!

    Explore additional opportunities to join the AJB volunteer community by participating in various activities, such as tabling events, prevention-focused workshops, Senior LEAP, and financial literacy presentations.

    If you’d like to attend an upcoming presentation or community event, please reach out to us at volunteer@accessjusticebk.org.


    Upcoming Trainings:

    The following CLE courses are FREE to those who accept one case relevant to the topic from Access Justice Brooklyn before November 1, 2025. Experienced attorneys who take a pro bono case can receive additional CLE credit for every 2 hours of eligible pro bono service.

    *The cost is $50 for registrants who do not wish to take a pro bono referral.

    Representing Homeowners in Administrative Hearings: New Trends and Challenges, Tuesday, November 12, 2024, 3:30–5:00 PM via Zoom
    Presented by: Peter S. White II, Supervising Attorney, Access Justice Brooklyn; and Aaron Scheinwald, Staff Attorney, Access Justice Brooklyn
    CLE Credit: 1.5 CLE credits available. Appropriate for newly admitted and experienced attorneys.

    Introduction to Consumer Bankruptcy, Tuesday, November 19, 2024, 3:00–5:00 PM via Zoom
    Presented by: Sheldon Barasch, Supervising Attorney, DC37; and Bruce Weiner, Partner, Rosenberg, Musso & Weiner, LLP
    CLE Credit: 2 CLE credits available. Appropriate for newly admitted and experienced attorneys.

  5. Press Release: Access Justice Brooklyn Announces the Appointment of Vidya Dindiyal to Young Professionals Board

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    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    Monday, July 1, 2024

    ACCESS JUSTICE BROOKLYN ANNOUNCES THE APPOINTMENT OF A NEW YOUNG PROFESSIONALS BOARD MEMBER (click here to download the press release)

    Brooklyn, New York –– Access Justice Brooklyn announces the appointment of a new member to its Young Professionals Board (YPB) following the organization’s Board meeting held on Wednesday, June 5, 2024.

    Joining Access Justice Brooklyn’s YPB is Vidya Dindiyal, Associate, Thompson Coburn LLP. Upon her appointment, Vidya shared the following:

    “I am thrilled to be elected to the YPB of Access Justice Brooklyn, an organization whose transformational and deeply systemic work and mission are integral to the advancement of civil rights for all New Yorkers. This work is near and dear to my heart.”

    Vidya’s expertise and dedication to social justice are poised to introduce new perspectives and creative strategies to the organization. “We are excited to welcome Vidya to the YPB! Her combined professional experience, enthusiasm, and commitment to equal justice aligns perfectly with the vision and mission of Access Justice Brooklyn,” said Michelle Tuma and Lisa Zivkovic, Access Justice Brooklyn YPB co-chairs.

    Access Justice Brooklyn’s YPB was established to support the organization’s Board of Directors and its goal of making the legal system more accessible and equitable for low-income Brooklyn residents. The YPB unites rising talent professionals across the legal and non-legal sectors who are motivated to utilize their time, experience, and diverse skill sets in service of Access Justice Brooklyn’s mission. The YPB serves as an advisor to and agent of the Board of Directors, driving an array of activities including community outreach and program expansion with a current focus on financial literacy, event planning and fundraising, and providing strategic guidance to the organization.

    Vidya joins a 7-member Young Professionals Board including: Michelle D. Tuma, Winston & Strawn LLP, co-chair; Lisa V. Zivkovic, Ph.D, Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP, co-chair; Cooper Bellinson, Ares Management Corporation; Jacob Godshall, GIC; Keren Goldshlager, Meta; Aaron Kahen, Fried, Frank, Harris, Shriver & Jacobson LLP; and Wendy Li, BSE Global.

    In Access Justice Brooklyn’s continuing strategic growth efforts, the organization currently seeks to add several new YPB members including dedicated and socially conscious young professionals with a deep commitment to access to justice and who bring innovative ideas and have a passion for helping underserved communities in Brooklyn. Strong leadership skills, a collaborative spirit, and a network of connections within the legal, corporate, or nonprofit sectors are highly valued.

    About Access Justice Brooklyn:

    Access Justice Brooklyn partners with compassionate pro bono attorneys to provide high-quality, civil legal services that help ensure equal access to the legal system. The organization’s approach prioritizes the most basic, essential elements and experiences of human life, including housing, family stability, and subsistence income. Its proven pro bono model—recruit, train, supervise, and support—also provides flexibility to address new legal issues as they emerge. Everyone, whether an attorney or not, has a role to play in expanding access to justice. Visit www.accessjusticebrooklyn.org or email info@accessjusticebk.org to volunteer, donate, or find other ways to get involved.

    Press Contact:
    Melissa Starr | Senior Director of Development & Strategic Initiatives | 718-473-9209 | melissa@accessjusticebk.org

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  6. Press Release: Access Justice Brooklyn Announces the Election of Alana Montas to Board of Directors

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    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    Thursday, June 27, 2024

    ACCESS JUSTICE BROOKLYN ANNOUNCES THE ELECTION OF A NEW BOARD MEMBER (click here to download the press release)

    Brooklyn, New York –– Access Justice Brooklyn announces the election of a new member to its Board of Directors following the organization’s meeting held on Wednesday, June 5, 2024.

    Joining Access Justice Brooklyn’s Board of Directors is Alana Montas, Counsel, Department of Enforcement at FINRA. Upon her election, Alana shared the following:

    “I am delighted to be joining the Board of Access Justice Brooklyn, an organization dedicated to providing equal access to legal services across Brooklyn. As an experienced litigator, I helped pro bono clients navigate the many challenges of the legal system to obtain favorable results. I look forward to continuing to advocate for the Brooklyn community and advancing the mission of Access Justice Brooklyn.”

    Access Justice Brooklyn thrives on the commitment of individuals like Alana who bring their expertise and compassion to the forefront.

    “We are incredibly excited to welcome Alana to the Access Justice Brooklyn Board. Throughout her career, Alana has had a significant impact intervening at pivotal moments to guide her pro bono clients through the legal system and change their lives for the better. Her dedication to her craft and compassion for others makes her an ideal member of the Board, and her passion for all things Brooklyn aligns perfectly with our mission. I can’t wait to begin working together in service of the Brooklyn community,” said Michael Watson, Secretary, Access Justice Brooklyn Board of Directors.

    Alana joins a 21-member board that oversees Access Justice Brooklyn’s governance and strategic development including: Lynn E. Judell, Rukab Brash PLLC, Chair; Stephen Z. Williamson, Law Office of Stephen Z. Williamson, P.L.L.C., Vice Chair; Lisa Braun, PwC, Treasurer; Michael Watson, New York-Presbyterian Hospital, Secretary; Jack Aldrich, BlackRock; Daniel Angel, Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLP; Elena Bonifacio, Google; Caroline Conway, Stonepeak; Akshay Dhiman, Lazard; Brian Fryd, Cornerstone Research; Adam B. Gilbert, Nixon Peabody LLP; Heidi Lee Henderson, Access Justice Brooklyn, President & CEO; Alexander Kaplan, Oppenheim + Zebrak, LLP; Colin Kelly, Fried, Frank, Harris, Shriver & Jacobson LLP; Mark Lande, Island Capital Group LLC; Trish Lilley, Thompson Coburn LLP; Samuel O. Maduegbuna, Maduegbuna Cooper LLP; Lee Popkin, Proskauer Rose LLP; Adam Shepherd, Macquarie Group; William Zichawo, Blackstone; Lauren Zimmerman, Selendy Gay PLLC.

    Board recruitment efforts continue as Access Justice Brooklyn seeks diverse candidates – lawyers and cross industry professionals – who possess the combined values, dedication, expertise, networks, and skills needed to fulfill the organization’s mission, address evolving legal challenges, strengthen holistic programming, secure new stakeholders, and strategically propel Access Justice Brooklyn to new levels of impact.

    About Access Justice Brooklyn:

    Access Justice Brooklyn partners with compassionate pro bono attorneys to provide high-quality, civil legal services that help ensure equal access to the legal system. The organization’s approach prioritizes the most basic, essential elements and experiences of human life, including housing, family stability, and subsistence income. Its proven pro bono model—recruit, train, supervise, and support—also provides flexibility to address new legal issues as they emerge. Everyone, whether an attorney or not, has a role to play in expanding access to justice.

    Visit www.accessjusticebrooklyn.org or email info@accessjusticebk.org to volunteer, donate, or find other ways to get involved.

    Press Contact:
    Melissa Starr | Senior Director of Development & Strategic Initiatives | 718-473-9209 | melissa@accessjusticebk.org

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  7. Press Release: Access Justice Brooklyn Announces the Appointment of Cooper Bellinson and Aaron Kahen to Young Professionals Board

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    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    Tuesday, March 19, 2024

    ACCESS JUSTICE BROOKLYN ANNOUNCES THE APPOINTMENT OF TWO NEW YOUNG PROFESSIONALS BOARD MEMBERS (click here to download the press release)

    Brooklyn, New York –– Access Justice Brooklyn announces the appointment of two new members to its Young Professionals Board (YPB) following the organization’s Board meeting held on March 7, 2024.

    Joining Access Justice Brooklyn’s YPB is Cooper Bellinson, Associate at Ares Management Corporation, and Aaron Kahen, Associate at Fried, Frank, Harris, Shriver & Jacobson LLP. Upon their appointment, the new members shared the following:

    “Throughout my life I have had the privilege of having access to business legal services, which have played a fundamental role in getting to me into college and ultimately my job. I am passionate about helping connect others with legal services, so that they can achieve the same freedoms I have benefited from,” said Cooper.

    “As someone who has been active in family law and landlord-tenant pro bono activities, I’m excited to join the AJB YPB board in order to help give back in Brooklyn, where I live and where I love to call home,” said Aaron.

    Through their dedication and diverse expertise, YPB members like Cooper and Aaron play a vital role in expanding programs that cater to the needs of our neighbors in need. “The YPB is thrilled to welcome Aaron and Cooper to our ranks and are looking forward to a productive year supporting Access Justice Brooklyn’s mission,” said Michelle Tuma and Lisa Zivkovic, Access Justice Brooklyn YPB co-chairs.

    Access Justice Brooklyn’s YPB was established to support the organization’s Board of Directors and its goal of making the legal system more accessible and equitable for low-income Brooklyn residents. The YPB unites rising talent professionals across the legal and non-legal sectors who are motivated to utilize their time, experience, and diverse skill sets in service of Access Justice Brooklyn’s mission. The YPB serves as an advisor to and agent of the Board of Directors, driving an array of activities including community outreach and program expansion with a current focus on financial literacy, event planning and fundraising, and providing strategic guidance to the organization.

    Cooper and Aaron join a 5-member Young Professionals Board including: Michelle D. Tuma, Winston & Strawn LLP, co-chair; Lisa V. Zivkovic, Ph.D, Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP, co-chair; Jacob Godshall, GIC; Keren Goldshlager, Meta; and Wendy Li, BSE Global.

    In Access Justice Brooklyn’s continuing strategic growth efforts, the organization currently seeks to add several new YPB members including dedicated and socially conscious young professionals with a deep commitment to access to justice and who bring innovative ideas and have a passion for helping underserved communities in Brooklyn. Strong leadership abilities, a collaborative spirit, and a network of connections within the legal, nonprofit, or corporate sectors are highly valued.


    About Access Justice Brooklyn:

    Access Justice Brooklyn partners with compassionate pro bono attorneys to provide high-quality, civil legal services that help ensure equal access to the legal system. The organization’s approach prioritizes the most basic, essential elements and experiences of human life, including housing, family stability, and subsistence income. Its proven pro bono model—recruit, train, supervise, and support—also provides flexibility to address new legal issues as they emerge. Everyone, whether an attorney or not, has a role to play in expanding access to justice. Visit www.accessjusticebrooklyn.org or email info@accessjusticebk.org to volunteer, donate, or find other ways to get involved.

    Press Contact:
    Melissa Starr | Senior Director of Development & Strategic Initiatives | 718-473-9209 | melissa@accessjusticebk.org

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  8. Our Senior Assistance Program is Growing!

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    We are excited to introduce Access Justice Brooklyn’s newest Staff Attorney, Lorraine Sabalja, who we welcomed to the team in January 2024!

    Lorraine is a former Access Justice Brooklyn volunteer and the 2020 recipient of our Liz Padilla Excellence in Public Service Award for outstanding commitment to pro bono services. She has extensive experience in elder law, including Medicaid, Medicare, estate planning and advance directives. 

    “To be part of an organization committed to doing good, where I can utilize my law practice and leverage that experience in a way to help the community is an incredible gift that lured me to join Access Justice Brooklyn. The opportunity to use my elder law experience to directly empower and educate seniors about the importance of making legal decisions that will allow them to maintain control over critical aspects of their lives and to build awareness of their rights to help them age safely in place, is especially gratifying.  

    I am also thrilled to be part of an organization that empowers and educates other attorneys to learn new areas of practice to help clients move forward with their lives and achieve their goals.  As a former volunteer with Access Justice, and recipient of the Liz Padilla Excellence In Public Service Award, I’ve also had the honor of experiencing firsthand the enrichment and reward that pro bono work can bring. Sharing this enthusiasm with other attorneys will be very exciting. It’s that client and peer interaction, engagement and connection which helps me reconnect to why I wanted to be a lawyer in the first place.”

    As Staff Attorney for Access Justice Brooklyn, Lorraine will oversee all aspects of our Senior Assistance Program, including our long-standing Senior Legal Education and Assistance Program (Senior LEAP), which provides legal information and advice to hundreds of seniors throughout Brooklyn each year.

    Expansion of our Senior Assistance Program was made possible in part by generous grants provided by the Mother Cabrini Health Foundation, Brooklyn Org, and the National Grid Foundation. To learn more about our Senior Assistance Program, click here.

  9. Introducing the Newest Members of Our Legal Services Team!

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    We are excited to introduce Access Justice Brooklyn’s newest Legal Assistant – Isaias Argueta, who we welcomed to the team in November 2023; and Merly Lopez, who we welcomed to the team in January 2024.

    Isaias is a graduate of New York University where he majored in Psychology and minored in Child and Adolescent Mental Health Studies. He has prior experience a case manager at Cayuga Centers, where he oversaw the timely release of unaccompanied minors from federal custody.

    “I am excited to join the Access Justice Brooklyn team because of their mission of achieving a more equitable Brooklyn. I believe that everyone deserves a fair chance at justice and AJB works to meet people where they are while linking them to the resources to empower themselves. I am excited to join the hardworking team at Access Justice Brooklyn so that I may connect Brooklynites to crucial resources needed to to effectively navigate the legal system. With experience as a social worker, I’m accustomed to approaching situations with compassion and empathy. I hope to use my experience to deliver effective and compassionate assistance to those across the borough.”

    Merly is a graduate of New York University where she majored in American Studies and involved with the The Undergraduate Law Review. She has prior experience as an editorial assistant at W. W. Norton and Co. and as a legal intern at Fuchs Rosenzweig, PLLC. Merly was also an organizer for the Workers Circle promoting civic engagement and empowerment as well as a mentor for the Kalos Academy.

    “Growing up as one of the only English speakers in my home, I viscerally experienced the inaccessibility of our legal and political systems early on. This quickly became the fuel for my pursuing a career in law and public advocacy, which is why applying to Access Justice Brooklyn was a no-brainer. The average client at Access Justice Brooklyn, like most low-income Americans, is typically overwhelmed and confused by the legal system from the moment they receive notice of a lawsuit. Organizations like Access Justice Brooklyn are some of the only lifelines available for bridging this profound gap in representation, especially with cases regarding foreclosures and consumer debt. I feel lucky to be able to contribute to a working model of direct service legal support that is committed to not only doing the work in the courts, but also working with communities directly through outreach and policy advocacy. As one of the first points of contact at the organization, I am most excited about the direct service nature of the work we do. In the short time I’ve been here, I’ve already seen the impact that just listening can have on someone who feels unseen by the larger legal and political systems.”

    As Legal Assistants for Access Justice Brooklyn, Isaias and Merly will conduct intakes with prospective clients, providing information and/or referrals to clients seeking legal assistance as well as support our Legal Services team in foreclosure, consumer debt, bankruptcy, family law, and other practice areas. To learn more about the services we provide, click here.

  10. Press Release: Access Justice Brooklyn Announces the Election of Lauren Zimmerman to Board of Directors

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    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    Thursday, January 4, 2024

    ACCESS JUSTICE BROOKLYN ANNOUNCES THE ELECTION OF A NEW BOARD MEMBER (click here to download the press release)

    Brooklyn, New York –– Access Justice Brooklyn announces the election of a new member to its Board of Directors following the organization’s meeting held on Wednesday, December 13, 2023.

    Joining Access Justice Brooklyn’s Board of Directors is Lauren Zimmerman, Partner at Selendy Gay Elsberg PLLC. Upon her election, Lauren shared the following:

    “Access Justice Brooklyn’s vision – of an equitable Brooklyn where everyone knows their rights and has access to legal support – is a vision I passionately share. As a former public defender in Brooklyn, I saw firsthand the challenges our neighbors face when navigating the legal system. In joining Access Justice Brooklyn’s Board, I’m excited to return to this type of work and once again serve the borough I call home.”

    As Access Justice Brooklyn embraces the new year, the organization is focused on bolstering its holistic programming and enhancing the definition of legal services to encompass intersecting challenges and needs. With Brooklyn at its core, Access Justice Brooklyn remains dedicated to closing the justice gap by engaging leaders like Lauren, who share in the values that drive the organization and its work.

    “We are thrilled to welcome Lauren to the Access Justice Brooklyn Board. As an experienced litigator, compassionate advocate, natural connector, and proud Brooklynite, Lauren brings a combined passion and expertise that will significantly impact the advancement of the organization, development of new partnerships, and strengthening of our pioneering pro bono model. She has stepped into her new role with ease and excitement, and I look forward to us working together in service to our Brooklyn community,” said Stephen Z. Williamson, Vice Chair and Board Resource and Governance Committee Co-Chair, Access Justice Brooklyn Board of Directors.

    Lauren will join a 25-member board that oversees Access Justice Brooklyn’s governance and strategic development including: Lynn E. Judell, Rukab Brash PLLC, Chair; Stephen Z. Williamson, Law Office of Stephen Z. Williamson, P.L.L.C., Vice Chair; Scottye Lindsey, Santander Bank, Treasurer; Michael Watson, New York-Presbyterian Hospital, Secretary; Jack Aldrich, BlackRock; Daniel Angel, Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLP; Elena Bonifacio, Google; Lisa Braun, PwC; Caroline Conway, Stonepeak; Akshay Dhiman, Lazard; Brian Fryd, Cornerstone Research; Jeffrey B. Gewirtz, BSE Global; Adam B. Gilbert, Nixon Peabody LLP; Heidi Lee Henderson, Access Justice Brooklyn, President & CEO; Alexander Kaplan, Oppenheim + Zebrak, LLP; Colin S. Kelly, Fried, Frank, Harris, Shriver & Jacobson LLP; Melanie Kotler, RenaissanceRe; Mark Lande, Island Capital Group LLC; Trish Lilley, Thompson Coburn LLP;Samuel O. Maduegbuna, Maduegbuna Cooper LLP; Thanya Polonio-Jones, Center for Reproductive Rights; Lee Popkin, Proskauer Rose LLP; Lydia Keaney Reynolds, FARFETCH; Adam Shepherd, Macquarie Group; and William Zichawo, Blackstone.

    Board recruitment efforts continue as Access Justice Brooklyn seeks diverse candidates – lawyers and cross industry professionals – who possess the combined values, dedication, expertise, networks, and skills needed to fulfill the organization’s mission, surpass its goals, secure new stakeholders, and strategically propel Access Justice Brooklyn to new levels of impact.

    About Access Justice Brooklyn:

    Access Justice Brooklyn partners with compassionate pro bono attorneys to provide high-quality, civil legal services that help ensure equal access to the legal system. The organization’s approach prioritizes the most basic, essential elements and experiences of human life, including housing, family stability, and subsistence income. Its proven pro bono model—recruit, train, supervise, and support—also provides flexibility to address new legal issues as they emerge. Everyone, whether an attorney or not, has a role to play in expanding access to justice.

    Visit www.accessjusticebrooklyn.org or email info@accessjusticebk.org to volunteer, donate, or find other ways to get involved.

    Press Contact:
    Melissa Starr | Senior Director of Development & Strategic Initiatives | 718-473-9209 | melissa@accessjusticebk.org

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