Can't view email. Click here

February 11, 2026

Hi,

As February moves along, PLC is continuing our work alongside the Orange County legal community, and this month I’m especially grateful for any time or attention you’re able to give. This time of year often brings a mix of renewed momentum and competing demands, so I approach this month with flexibility and appreciation for whatever capacity looks like right now.

When and where it feels right, this month’s case list includes a range of matters where legal support can make a real and tangible difference for individuals and families navigating difficult circumstances. From immigration relief to elder financial abuse and consumer matters, each case represents someone looking for stability, security, or a fresh start.

If you’re able to take on a case, even one matter can make a meaningful impact for a client who is waiting for help. I know commitments vary, and I’m always happy to connect you with a different matter if none of the cases on this list are the right fit.

Thank you for continuing to show up for our community in the ways you can. Your willingness to stay engaged—especially during uncertain times—means more than you may realize.

Sincerely,

Angela Mestre

Pro Bono Coordinator

APPEALS

Fight for Housing Justice: Represent Displaced Residents on Appeal – PLC 23-0077406

A vibrant low-income neighborhood is being dismantled—homes acquired, buildings demolished, and residents displaced. Clients, a group of current and former residents, along with a dedicated community-based nonprofit, fought back by seeking a writ of mandate to compel the municipality and related defendants to fulfill their legal obligations under the Community Redevelopment Law (Health & Safety Code § 33000 et seq.) and California Relocation Assistance Act (Gov. Code § 7260 et seq., 25 C.C.R. § 6000 et seq.) to, among other things, replace housing units removed from the market and provide replacement housing and relocation assistance to impacted residents. Despite their efforts, the trial court sustained a demurrer to the petition for writ of mandate without leave to amend. Now, Clients seek an experienced pro bono appellate attorney in connection with the appeal from the judgment. PLC, along with another organization, would co-counsel on the case.

Email Supervising Attorney Marc Callahan

FAMILY LAW

Divorce/Domestic Violence – PLC 25-0101080

Client is currently navigating divorce proceedings after a long-term marriage of 20+ years. The opposing party, who is an attorney, has restricted her access to their 15-year-old child. Client is seeking legal guidance on divorce, particularly in documenting and presenting a history of domestic violence. She is a victim of revenge porn, emotional and financial abuse. Client is in need of support and resources to ensure her safety and to protect her legal rights during this process.

Email Co-Supervising Attorney Joanna Wong

FINANCIAL/INCOME PROTECTION

Recovery of Assets Following Elder Financial Abuse – PLC 25-0122007

Client is a 74-year-old Farsi-speaker who suffered a financial loss after the proceeds from the sale of her home and her personal belongings—including furniture, clothing, and jewelry—were transferred to her daughter in 2023 without Client’s intent or authorization. Client reports that these transfers were fraudulent and is seeking a pro bono attorney to assist in recovering both the funds and her belongings. Client’s son is available to assist with interpretation and email communication, as needed. Your assistance will help Client pursue recovery of her assets and protect her financial security.

Email Staff Attorney Morgan Padgett

Elder Financial Abuse Matter Involving Fraud – PLC 26-0123730

Client is an 83-year-old woman on a fixed income who has recently begun experiencing memory issues. In July 2025, Client contacted a plumbing company to address a backed-up sink. After completing the initial repair, the company continued to contact Client to have additional work done around the home. Client lives alone and believes she was targeted for services she did not need. The company facilitated a loan with a finance company, ran up her credit card, and asked Client for various payments, which she made via check. Client is now in debt $160,000. Client reports that she was never provided copies of the loan agreements, and after Client’s daughter and son—who hold power of attorney—became involved, they obtained four loan agreements bearing electronic signatures that Client states she did not authorize or make. No debt collection lawsuits have been filed to date. Your assistance will help Client challenge fraudulent debt and work toward financial recovery.

Email Staff Attorney Morgan Padgett

Chapter 7 Relief from Mounting Unsecured Debt – PLC 25-0118277

Client has approximately $52,000 in unsecured debt and is experiencing anxiety from ongoing collection activity and the risk of potential lawsuits. Client’s employment situation has recently stabilized, and he is now seeking assistance with filing a Chapter 7 bankruptcy to address his debt and move forward on more secure financial footing. Your assistance will help Client obtain meaningful debt relief and achieve a fresh financial start.

Email Senior Staff Attorney Lydia Tse

Elder Financial Abuse – PLC 25-0122000

Client is a 71-year-old man who speaks English and Hindi and is seeking legal assistance after being misled into what he believes is a fraudulent investment scheme. An individual offered to invest funds on Client’s behalf through a third-party website and provided regular updates showing apparent growth of his investment. When the client later attempted to withdraw funds, he was unable to access any money, and the individual stopped responding to his inquiries. Client now believes he was the target of a scam and seeks to pursue legal action against the individual involved, and potentially the company she claimed to represent, to recover his losses, which total approximately $78,000. Taking this case offers an opportunity to help an older adult seek accountability and financial recovery after being taken advantage of through deceptive practices.

Email Staff Attorney Morgan Padgett

Recovering Wages and Assets for Survivor of Long-Term Labor Exploitation – PLC 25-0122001

Client is a 63-year-old woman from Southeast Asia who was brought to the United States and compelled to work for a family that withheld her pay. After more than 30 years, Client was able to safely leave this situation. Client is now seeking assistance to recover the funds that were wrongfully withheld throughout her time with this family, as well as funds she believes were also withheld from her late husband. By taking this case, you can help support Client’s effort to reclaim what is rightfully hers and take meaningful steps toward starting a new life.

Email Staff Attorney Monica Bedilla

Solar Panel Fraud & Litigation Options – PLC 24-0086553

Clients, both over 65 years old, entered into a contract with a solar company to install a solar panel system on their residence for $27,840, payable upon completion. Although the panels were installed, they were never connected or made operational. Later, Clients discovered a fraudulent contract for the same installation with Energy Corp, totaling $42,919.68, plus financing, bringing the cost to $113,731.11. Clients never signed any agreement with Energy Corp. Clients contacted Energy Corp. about the fraudulent signature, and they agreed to cancel the contract and remove the panels. However, a third company filed a mechanics' lien lawsuit claiming it had supplied the panels. Due to concerns over this lien, Clients did not allow Energy Corp. to take possession of the panels.

The mechanics' lien lawsuit is still pending, with discovery completed and trial set for 2026. Energy Corp., now in Chapter 11 bankruptcy in Texas, has proposed (and the court approved) a sale of all assets free and clear of all liens, claims, and encumbrances. PLC filed a proof of claim in that bankruptcy, asserting Client’s claims against Energy Corp for the fraudulent contract, including, but not limited to claims of fraud, elder financial abuse, violations of California’s Home Solicitation Sales Act, California’s Unfair Competition Law, and the federal E-Sign Act. However, the only way to sue Energy Corp. now is within the bankruptcy case via an adversary proceeding or by filing a motion for relief from the stay to pursue litigation outside of the bankruptcy case. To resolve the matter, clients are willing to pay $27,840 (original contract price) once the panels are functioning, and both the mechanics’ lien and Energy Corp. claims are released against Clients, their home, and the solar panels. Clients are seeking representation for this exciting case at the intersection of consumer rights, fraud, and the solar panel industry.

Email Directing Attorney Suzanne Iazetta

Elder Financial Protection – Solar Panel Loan Dispute – PLC 24-0088454

Client is an older adult, a monolingual Spanish speaker, living on a fixed income. In late 2022, a door-to-door salesperson sold him solar panels for his home, under the impression that the cost would be covered by a government program. However, Client has since discovered that he has been saddled with a loan exceeding $50,000, which he is unable to afford. He is seeking assistance to cancel the loan and have the panels removed from his home. Assist an older adult in resolving a predatory solar panel loan and reclaiming his home. This case can be handled independently or in conjunction with case PLC 24-0088454-B, as detailed below.

Email Directing Attorney Suzanne Iazetta

Protecting Elder’s Claims in Solar Panel Loan & Bankruptcy – PLC 24-0088454-B

Client is an older, monolingual Spanish speaker that is on a fixed income. In late 2022, a door-to-door salesperson sold him solar panels, under the impression that a government program would cover the cost. However, Client was saddled with an unaffordable loan of over $50,000. The vendor who sold the solar panels has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in the Southern District of Texas, proposing a sale of all assets free and clear of all liens, claims, and encumbrances. There is still time to object to the proposed sale and potentially secure a 363(o) carve-out and ensure any third-party releases do not apply to this claim. Clients want to preserve their claims and ensure that they are not wiped out in the bankruptcy proceedings. However, the only way to pursue a lawsuit against the vendor is to file an adversary proceeding within the bankruptcy case or file a motion for relief from stay and win to sue outside the bankruptcy court. Client seeks legal guidance to protect his interests and prevent the loss of his claims. This case can be handled independently or in conjunction with case PLC 24-0088454, as detailed above.

Email Directing Attorney Suzanne Iazetta

IMMIGRATION

BOND HEARING

Bond Hearing for Detained Asylum Seeker – PLC 26-0123184

Client is a 31-year-old woman seeking a pro bono attorney to assist with an immigration bond hearing. Client is an asylum seeker who fled serious physical and psychological harm in her home country and has been detained since June 2025 following an immigration court arrest after her case was dismissed without a merits hearing. Client is now eligible to seek release from detention through a bond hearing and is requesting legal representation to present her case and reunite with her life, community, and support system outside of detention. Your assistance will play a critical role in helping Client pursue that release and regain a sense of normalcy while her immigration case continues.

Email Staff Attorney Andy Marin

HABEAS PETITION

Habeas Petition for Long-Term Detainee Seeking Release – PLC 25-0118958

Client is a 52-year-old man from China seeking pro bono assistance with a habeas petition following re-detention by ICE. Client received a final order of removal around 2001 due to a prior conviction. However, the government was unable to effectuate his removal within the required time period and Client was released under an order of supervision. During this time, Client married a U.S. citizen and focused on rebuilding his future and establishing a stable home together. At a routine check-in in September 2025, Client was re-detained and has remained in custody at Adelanto since that time. Client is now seeking legal assistance for a habeas petition to allow him to return to the life he worked so hard to build with his wife.

Email Staff Attorney Andy Marin

T-VISA

Assist a Trafficking Survivor Seeking Relief: T-Visa - PLC 25-0107263

Client, a 30-year-old woman from the Philippines, is seeking a pro bono attorney to assist with her T-Visa application. After being recruited in her home country, she was brought to the United States by individuals who subjected her to severe labor conditions in unlawful conditions and under threats of deportation. Client is fluent in both English and Tagalog and would like to include her husband and two minor children—currently residing in the Philippines—as derivatives on her application. She is ready to begin the process and is looking for legal support to help her move forward.

Email Staff Attorney Allyssa Scheyer

U-VISA

Immigration Relief for Mother Seeking Protection Through a U-Visa – PLC 25-0115233*

Client is seeking pro bono assistance with a U-Visa application based on domestic violence committed by her longtime partner of more than 16 years. Client experienced repeated physical and psychological abuse that resulted in injury and caused her to fear for her well-being. She is a 40-year-old mother of two minor U.S. citizen children and is focused on protecting herself and caring for her family. Taking on this case allows a pro bono attorney to assist Client in pursuing immigration relief that supports her ability to remain in the United States and continue providing for her children.

Email Staff Attorney Andy Marin

*NOTE: For U-Visa cases at PLC, the pro bono attorney's commitment is to finalize the U-Visa within 6 months of placement and forward it to PLC for review and approval. At that point the pro bono attorney’s commitment and service on this case will be completed. PLC will file the U-Visa with USCIS as attorney of record.

U-Visa Application for Survivor Who Assisted Law Enforcement – PLC 25-0119131*

Client is seeking pro bono assistance with a U-Visa application based on serious crimes she experienced as a minor, including sexual assault and false imprisonment. The U-Visa will be based on those crimes, however, Client also experienced severe domestic violence in 2018. Client cooperated fully with law enforcement and the District Attorney’s Office, including providing testimony in the criminal case against the perpetrator. Evidence related to Client’s history as a victim of domestic violence, her cooperation in the investigation and prosecution of the crime, and her requests for restraining orders to protect herself and her three children will be used to demonstrate the ongoing impact of the original crimes and her continued assistance to law enforcement. Client is an English speaker and the single mother of three U.S. citizen children, all under the age of 10. Taking this case allows a pro bono attorney to help Client secure immigration relief that recognizes her cooperation with law enforcement while supporting her ability to protect and care for her family.

Email Staff Attorney Allyssa Scheyer

*NOTE: For U-Visa cases at PLC, the pro bono attorney's commitment is to finalize the U-Visa within 6 months of placement and forward it to PLC for review and approval. At that point the pro bono attorney’s commitment and service on this case will be completed. PLC will file the U-Visa with USCIS as attorney of record.

U-Visa Application for Survivor of Domestic Violence – PLC 24-0085971*

Client, a single mother, is seeking a pro bono attorney to assist in applying for a U-Visa based on severe domestic violence by her former partner. Client is a Spanish speaker and will require interpretation throughout the process. Taking on this case offers the opportunity to help Client secure a pathway to immigration relief.

Email Staff Attorney Allyssa Scheyer

*NOTE: For U-Visa cases at PLC, the pro bono attorney's commitment is to finalize the U-Visa within 6 months of placement and forward it to PLC for review and approval. At that point the pro bono attorney’s commitment and service on this case will be completed. PLC will file the U-Visa with USCIS as attorney of record.

U-Visa Assistance for Aggravated Assault Victim – PLC 23-0075174*

Client, a monolingual Spanish-speaking man, survived an aggravated assault in which a Molotov cocktail was thrown at him. He reported the incident to police and fully cooperated with law enforcement in the criminal investigation. He is now in need of a pro bono attorney to assist with preparing and filing his U-Visa application. Interpretation services are available to support communication.

Email Staff Attorney Andy Marin

*NOTE: For U-Visa cases at PLC, the pro bono attorney's commitment is to finalize the U-Visa within 6 months of placement and forward it to PLC for review and approval. At that point the pro bono attorney’s commitment and service on this case will be completed. PLC will file the U-Visa with USCIS as attorney of record.

VAWA

VAWA-Based Adjustment of Status for Survivor of Domestic Violence – PLC 25-0114494

Client is a young woman from Mexico seeking assistance with a VAWA-based Adjustment of Status application. Client is in the process of divorcing her U.S. citizen spouse and is pursuing immigration relief based on domestic violence experienced during the marriage. Throughout the relationship, Client was subjected to severe psychological and emotional abuse, as well as physical violence. Client’s spouse exerted significant control over her daily activities and stalked her after she left him. Client previously had DACA but was unable to renew her status due to the trauma she experienced during the relationship and the lack of financial independence and ability to pay the renewal fee. Client is now seeking a pro bono attorney to assist in moving forward through the VAWA-AOS process. Client speaks both English and Spanish.

Email Co-Supervising Attorney Josie Roberto

Help a Mother Find Safety and Stability in the U.S. – PLC 25-0111466

Client is a 44-year-old mother of two minor children from Mexico seeking assistance with a VAWA petition based on domestic violence by her U.S. citizen spouse. The abuse extended to both Client and her children and included repeated threats, leading Client to separate from her spouse and obtain an active restraining order. Client is not yet divorced. Your assistance will help Client pursue immigration relief through a VAWA petition and move toward long-term stability for her family. Client is a monolingual Spanish speaker (interpretation can be provided as needed) and is the sole applicant on this matter.

Email Staff Attorney Leasly Salazar

VAWA/Adjustment of Status Petition – PLC 25-0110826

Client is a 25-year-old woman from Mexico seeking assistance with her VAWA and Adjustment of Status Petition. She endured significant emotional and physical abuse by her former U.S. citizen spouse throughout their marriage. Client has successfully secured a temporary restraining order and is awaiting a hearing for a permanent restraining order. Criminal charges have been filed against her ex-spouse, and divorce proceedings are pending. This case presents an opportunity to assist a survivor of domestic violence as she navigates the immigration process and works toward building a new future. Client is fluent in English and is the sole applicant in her case.

Email Staff Attorney Leasly Salazar

VAWA Petition – PLC 25-0104637

Client is a 53-year-old woman from Mexico seeking a pro bono attorney to file a VAWA petition. Client experienced emotional, mental, and physical abuse throughout her marriage at the hands of her lawful permanent resident spouse. Now recently divorced, she is seeking to ensure a stable future for herself and her child, who is autistic and depends on her for care. Your assistance will provide Client with the opportunity for a more stable life for herself and her child. Client is a monolingual Spanish speaker (interpretation can be provided as needed) and the sole applicant in her case.

Email Staff Attorney Leasly Salazar

Advocate for a Veteran’s Right to a Safe Home – PLC 25-0103011

For years, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran and his family have lived in unsafe conditions while their landlord ignored requests for repairs. Only after local code enforcement issued multiple violations did the landlord finally face accountability. With the violations now on record, this family has an important opportunity to take the next step: asserting their rights through a potential habitability claim. They are seeking a pro bono attorney who can evaluate the case, advise on available remedies, and, if appropriate, represent them in pursuing legal action. Your advocacy can help ensure this veteran’s family secures the safe and dignified housing they have long been denied.

Email Supervising Attorney Ryan Ueda

Support a Senior Tenant Facing Unlawful Eviction – PLC 25-0111781

Client, a senior living with disabilities, had been renting a room on a verbal lease for over seven years. In April 2025, he received an oral eviction notice from his sister, the homeowner. Before he could obtain details about the reason for his eviction, Client’s wife passed away unexpectedly. Client went into shock and was hospitalized. When Client returned home at the end of the month, he discovered his personal belongings had been removed from his room and left outside. The homeowner falsely claimed Client had abandoned the property. Client is seeking a pro bono attorney to obtain justice for his unlawful eviction.

Email Directing Attorney Richard Walker

Fight Housing Discrimination – Help a Single Father Seek Justice – PLC 24-0098720

Client, a devoted single father, faced persistent discrimination from his landlord simply for having a child. Client’s child merely displayed normal child behavior. However, Landlord blamed Client’s young son for a plumbing leak in their apartment—despite a year of failed repair attempts—and restricted the family’s use of their own bathtub. Unable to endure the continued hardship and unfair treatment, Client was forced to move when his lease ended. Now, Client is seeking legal representation to file a private civil lawsuit for damages based on familial status discrimination. He has already pursued a case with the California Civil Rights Department, but mediation was unsuccessful. Your advocacy can help hold Landlord accountable and protect the rights of families like his.

Email Directing Attorney Richard Walker

TAX

Tax Identity Theft – PLC 24-0087745

Client is a 62-year-old monolingual Spanish-speaking woman who recently discovered that her Social Security number was used by another individual for employment purposes from 2019 through 2023. These tax years have not yet been audited by the IRS. She is now seeking assistance from a pro bono attorney to correct the record with the appropriate agencies by clearing her name and to help prevent future identity theft. This is a meaningful opportunity to assist a client who is eager to resolve this matter and move forward with peace of mind.

Email Senior Staff Attorney Evan Phoenix

Help Launch a Sustainable Business Tackling Single-Use Plastics – PLC-24-0084770

Client is seeking pro bono assistance with forming a limited liability company for an environmentally focused startup aimed at reducing single-use plastics in Orange County. Client has developed sustainable and compostable food serving/storage products designed for use across the food industry — including, but not limited to restaurants, schools, cafeterias, and fast-food establishments. This is a great opportunity to assist an early-stage startup in getting off the ground while advancing environmentally responsible practices.

Email Supervising Attorney Brigid Joyce

Structuring an Affordable Housing Project for Lasting Community Impact – PLC 25-0108089

Client, a long-established religious nonprofit, is preparing to develop affordable housing on its property and is seeking pro bono legal guidance at a key planning stage. Client needs advice on how best to hold title to the development, whether a new related entity should be formed, and assistance with entity formation if appropriate. This is a meaningful opportunity to help shape a project that will expand access to affordable housing and serve the community for years to come.

Email Supervising Attorney Brigid Joyce

Advise Emerging Tech/AI Business on Regulatory Compliance and Unauthorized Practice of Law Risk – PLC 25-0122026

Client is an emerging tech-enabled business focused on helping individuals launch their own small businesses through structured guidance, tools, and educational resources. Client seeks a pro bono attorney to review its business blueprint and operational model to ensure compliance with applicable business, consumer protection, and technology-related legal requirements, including issues unique to building an AI-driven platform. A particular area of concern is ensuring that the services offered do not cross into the unauthorized practice of law while still providing meaningful support to users starting new businesses. By taking this case, you can help an innovative early-stage company build a legally sound, ethical foundation that expands access to entrepreneurship without creating regulatory risk.

Email Supervising Attorney Brigid Joyce

Advise Fiscally Sponsored Land Conservation Project on Entity Formation and Real Estate Law​ – PLC 25-0121517

Client is a fiscally sponsored project working to safeguard acres of land in Orange County threatened by imminent private development. The project’s long-term goal is to acquire the land, preserve it for public benefit and educational purposes, and ultimately transfer ownership to the County. Client seeks a pro bono attorney to provide advice and guidance regarding whether to establish a separate 501(c)(3) nonprofit entity at this juncture or remain a project. Client also seeks preliminary advice and counsel on land use, property, and real estate law issues in anticipation of a future transfer. Given the timing of potential development activity, early legal guidance will be critical to preserving the project’s available options. By taking this case, you can help protect environmentally and community-significant land while supporting a grassroots effort to ensure long-term public stewardship.

Email Supervising Attorney Brigid Joyce

Help Established Human Trafficking Nonprofit Navigate Copyright Issues – PLC 26-0123271

Client is an established non-profit working to prevent human trafficking whose mission is to end human trafficking. Client is seeking a pro bono attorney to provide legal guidance on copyright best practices for its educational materials. These resources are widely shared online and distributed to community partners to promote awareness, prevention, and survivor support. Pro bono counsel on this matter will help ensure the organization can confidently expand its training and outreach efforts in preparation for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and Olympic Games in Los Angeles, strengthening protections for vulnerable communities during major global events.

Email Supervising Attorney Brigid Joyce

Provide Advice and Counsel to Existing Youth-Related Nonprofit re: EDD Issue – PLC 25-0120101

Client is an established nonprofit that offers innovative arts, education, and therapy programs serving low-income and special needs families. Client is seeking advice and counsel regarding an ongoing payment issue with the Employment Development Department related to a period during the Covid-19 pandemic. Your guidance can help the Client resolve this matter and stay focused on providing vital programs for youth and families.

Email Supervising Attorney Brigid Joyce

Advise Nonprofit on Transitional Housing Laws – PLC 25-0117831

Client is an existing nonprofit that provides support to at-risk and homeless students, many of whom lack parental support, by offering the resources necessary to complete high school and pursue self-sufficiency. Client seeks pro bono advice and counsel regarding its programming, particularly related to working with children and transitional youth. By taking this case, you can help Client navigate complex housing and related laws while supporting vulnerable youth on their path toward independence.

Email Supervising Attorney Brigid Joyce

ADA Compliance for Community Book Fair – PLC 25-0116535

Client is a well-established community foundation planning a large book fair in November 2025. The event will include indoor and outdoor spaces, with 3–4 stages for programming, as well as booths and activities such as read-alongs, reading to a dog, book vendors, cooking demonstrations, and a farmer’s market. Client seeks legal guidance on ADA compliance to ensure the fair is accessible and inclusive for all attendees, including individuals with disabilities.

Email Supervising Attorney Brigid Joyce

HR Practices and Procedures Review for Mental Health Nonprofit – PLC 25-0114715

Client is an established nonprofit that offers affordable therapy services to individuals, couples, families, and children. Client is seeking a pro bono attorney to assist with legal advice and guidance on setting up a small human resources department to ensure full compliance with state and federal laws related to hiring practices. By offering your expertise, you can help a nonprofit lay the groundwork for a compliant and successful HR department.

Email Supervising Attorney Brigid Joyce

www.publiclawcenter.org