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Advocacy: Domestic violence/PFAs in all 4 counties + Bucks County spotlight
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LASP presentations at PLAN Conference: Homeless advocacy, LGBTQIA+, Grants 101 & attorney retention
- Join us: 19th Annual Trial Run 5K Oct. 27 (run/walk)
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Pro Bono Month: Celebrations & CLEs planned for October & November | Volunteer oportunities
- Hurricane Ida: 3 years later, LASP continues to help survivors
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Apply by Dec. 31: PA Property Tax/Rent Rebate
- Harris Poll: Over half of Americans mistakenly think they have a right to an attorney in civil cases
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Upcoming outreach | New staff | LASP Scrapbook | Jobs
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Domestic Violence Awareness Month | |
Advocacy spotlight: LASP provides crucial legal help for survivors of domestic violence, including Protection from Abuse (PFA) orders in all 4 counties | |
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Throughout the year, LASP advocates help survivors of domestic violence in Bucks, Chester, Delaware and Montgomery counties obtain Protection from Abuse (PFA) orders and other relief. LASP attorneys are in court EVERY WEEK on behalf of clients seeking protection from abuse.
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LASP has received funding through the Victims of Crimes Act (VOCA) since 2016. VOCA is currently celebrating its 40th anniversary. However, VOCA funding does not cover all of the services that LASP provides for survivors.
2023-24 in all 4 counties
LASP VOCA attorneys handled 1,420 domestic violence and related cases in 2023-24 in Bucks, Chester, Delaware and Montgomery counties. The total number of survivors and household members protected was 1,653.
In 2023-24, LASP obtained 501 protective orders for survivors of domestic violence in the four counties. Twenty-five percent of protective orders also included child custody orders. Some orders also included other provisions, including evicting the perpetrators. LASP also assisted survivors in obtaining housing, access to benefits, and divorces.
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SPOTLIGHT: LASP's vital work in Bucks County PFA Court | |
Unique program | LASP provides direct representation in PFA Court AND coordinates pro bono representation for ALL plaintiffs without representation! | |
Editor's note: The term "plaintiff" refers to a person who brings a legal action. "Plaintiff" and "petitioner" are used interchangeably in this article. | |
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DOYLESTOWN - Bucks County Courts offer a longstanding program in Protection from Abuse (PFA) Court that is unique in Pennsylvania. Legal representation is provided in PFA Court to both plaintiffs and defendants, regardless of income. The parties can decline representation but almost always accept.
PFA hearings are scheduled every Wednesday at the Bucks County Justice Center (pictured on Oct. 16) in Doylestown. Approximately 40% of the cases get continued (moved to a later date) and need to be assigned an attorney for the new date. As of Oct. 9 of this year, there have been 1,512 PFA cases. LASP has arranged attorneys for 1,151 of them, or a little over 76%.
LASP has been tasked by the court with making sure that all petitioners have a free attorney, regardless of income, if they do not already have representation. LASP cannot represent every petitioner, so LASP staff members recruit private attorneys to dedicate their pro bono time to this important work. LASP also arranges for petitioners who present conflicts of interest to have a pro bono attorney.
The Bucks County Bar Association coordinates pro bono volunteers for defendants. In addition, several attorneys volunteer as facilitators in PFA Court to help make the day run smoothly.
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LASP attorneys provide direct representation throughout the PFA process. LASP Staff Attorney Barbara Kaner (pictured at left) is available to advise clients about whether to file a PFA and will assist with drafting the petition.
When a petition has been filed with the court, LASP coordinates representation for ALL plaintiffs in PFA Court -- whether by LASP or a pro bono attorney. Each week, LASP staff work diligently to asign and reassign cases, scan and email petitions to attorneys and community partners, and to track the status of every case.
52 weeks a year, LASP:
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Advises and directly represents PFA petitioners.
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Assigns cases and scans and emails paperwork to other agencies and pro bono attorneys handling cases in Bucks PFA Court.
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Recruits and trains pro bono attorneys for plaintiffs.
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Kimberly Hollenback, LASP VOCA Supervising Attorney, is based in Delaware County and periodically assists in Bucks PFA Court. She noted, "The PFA program in Bucks County is unlike anything else we handle at LASP, and it could not function without the hard work of our team at LASP, the facilitators, and attorney volunteers. So many people dedicate their valuable time to making sure both plaintiffs and defendants get the benefit of counsel. Although there is no right to counsel in civil cases such as PFAs, Bucks County has recognized the value of having the advice and representation of counsel whether you are a victim of domestic violence or being accused of it."
Kimberly continued, "Each time I volunteer, I am in awe of the zealous advocacy and efficiency of this system. In particular, our attorney, Barb Kaner, handles large caseloads with ease and grace. We are lucky to have such a great team running such a demanding program. But we can’t do it without volunteer attorneys, so please consider joining us!"
Pro bono attorneys who wish to learn more or volunteer for plaintiffs in Bucks County PFA Court can contact Durene McCarty, LASP Bristol Office Manager and Assistant Pro Bono Coordinator, at dmccarty@lasp.org or 215-398-6757. Choose any Wednesday(s).
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Kayden's Law CLE at the
Delaware County Bar Association
MEDIA - 45+ attorneys attended the Delaware County Bar Association’s Family Law Section CLE to learn about “Kayden’s Law: How the New Law Impacts Your Custody Cases.” The CLE on Sept. 26 discussed the history of the law, Kayden's Law itself, and how the law will impact practitioners.
Pictured (from left): Emily Vener-Giszter (at left) and Melanie Tunaitis with panelests Kathleen O'Connor of Sweeney & Neary, L.L.P; Kimberly Hollenback, LASP VOCA Supervising Attorney & Media Managing Attorney; and Hon. Stephanie Klein. Court of Common Pleas.
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Protection orders in Pennsylvnaia
PHOENIXVILLE - Brian Doyle, Staff Attorney, provided a primer on civil protection orders in Pennsylvania in a virtual presentation hosted by Phoenixville Public Library on Oct. 7.
He outlined relief available through Protection from Abuse (PFA) orders and the Protection from Sexual Violence & Intimidation Act (PSVI), and also gave specific how-to's for Chester County.
The 35-minute presentation is available online, via the library's YouTube channel.
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PLAN CLE: 'The Trauma Informed Practice'
The Pennsylvania Legal Aid Network (PLAN) hosted a Domestic Violence Awareness Month CLE for legal aid staff, "The Trauma Informed Practice." Kimberly Hollenback (pictured at right), LASP VOCA Supervising Attorney & Media Office Managing Attorney, presented the virtual training Oct. 16.
In addition to focusing on techniques and "lessons learned" in her Delaware County-based practice in domestic violence and obtaining Protection from Abuse (PFA) orders and other relief for survivors, Kim shared approaches applicable to all legal aid practice areas.
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PCCD seeks your input: Victims Needs Survey | |
2024 PLAN Statewide Training Conference | |
LASP staff share expertise on homeless advocacy, LGBTQIA+ represenation, Grants 101 & HR at PLAN Conference | |
HARRISBURG - Several LASP staff presented at the 2024 Pennsylvania Legal Aid Network (PLAN) annual Statewide Training Conference. A record-setting 370+ attendees were on hand at the Hilton Harrisburg. Multiple LASP staff shared their expertise with legal aid advcocates statewide. (See below.) | |
"A Collaborative Approach to Combating the Criminalization of Homelessness," was presented by Erica Briant (at left), LASP Director of Community Engagement & Training; Mark Boorse, Access Services Director of Community Development; Charles Burrows, LASP Staff Attorney; and Marielle Macher, Community Justice Project (CJP) Executive Director. | |
Before the keynote speech on Sept. 19, most LASP staff at the training conferernce gathered for a photo, along with Bill Baldwin, Deputy Director of Pro Bono Services for the Pennsylvania Bar Association & former LASP Board President. | |
"Name Changes: Fundamentals, Challenges and the 2SLGBTQIA+ Community," presented by Connor Marcum, Northwestern Legal Services Staff Attorney; Nicky Ripley, Founder & Director of Legal Services Program for Hugh Lane Wellness Foundation; and Michelle R. Dempsky, LASP Staff Attorney. | |
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"Grants 101," presented by Ann Tydeman-Solomon, LASP Development Director.
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"How to Attract and Keep Talented Attorneys in Legal Aid," presented by Dr. Tevis Bryant, PLAN Director of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging & HR Operations; Elise Wilson-Coles (center), LASP Human Resources Manger; and Megan Lovett, Director of Public Interest & Pro Bono Initiatives for the University of Pittsburgh School of Law. | |
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Join CCBA & LASP for the 19th annual Trial Run 5K Oct. 27:
Fun for the whole family! Run or walk!
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WAYNE - The Trial Run 5K is returning for its 19th year! Join us on Sunday morning, Oct. 27 for a run or walk at Wilson Farm Park to support Legal Aid of Southeastern PA! Prizes will be awarded to the top male and female finishers, as well as for the best costume.
This event, organized by the Chester County Bar Association's Pro Bono Committee, is part of the 2024 Pro Bono Week celebration.
Register now at https://bit.ly/TrialRun5K. Entry fee: $20 (before race day), $25 on race day. Registration includes a t-shirt, while supplies last!
Parking is available on-site, and the race begins at the south pavilion, nearest Route 202.
Sponsorships are welcome & start at just $100! Learn more about sponsorship benefits here (1-page PDF) or at lasp.org/trial-run.
For questions about sponsorship or the event, contact Brian Doyle, LASP Staff Attorney and Chester County Pro Bono Coordinator, at 484-416-4259 ext. 5210 or bdoyle@lasp.org. 👟
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Eugene "Gene" Bonner, Staff Attorney based in Pottstown | |
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POTTSTOWN - Eugene "Gene" V. Bonner III joined LASP Sept. 16 as Staff Attorney based in the Pottstown Office. Most recently, he was a solo practitioner in Phoenixville in the Law Offices of Eugene V. Bonner, a firm he launched in 2016, where he handled litigation including the filing of pleadings and representation of clients in hearings, depositions and private negotiations. He represented creditors in consumer collection actions, clients in landlord-tenant matters and traffic offenses, and provided legal representation through the Chester County Bar Association Access to Justice Program.
Gene has 25 years of experience as Environmental Manager for Republic Services, Inc. in Morgantown, Corvanta Energy Corp. in Chester City, and Waste Management in Fairless Hills, where he negotiated with regulatory agencies and local officials to acquire permits and obtain favorable compliance interpretations. He was litigation attorney for Powell, Trachtman, Logan & Carrle in King of Prussia, specializing in the representation of engineers, architects and contractors in state and federal courts.
He holds a J.D., Master of Civil Engineering and Bachelor of Civil Engineering, all from Villanova University. He served as Sargeant in active duty for the U.S. Marine Corps for three years. From 1999-2007, he was a member of the East Pikeland Planning Commission. Gene can be reached at 610-756-7409 or ebonner@lasp.org.
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Caillean Daily, Equal Justice Works Fellow in Chester City | |
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CHESTER City - Caillean Daily joined LASP Sept. 9 as Equal Justice Works Fellow based in the Veterans Advocacy Project (VAP) in Chester City. VAP serves all four of LASP's counties plus 16 addtional counties in PA. She will focus on developing a Medical-Legal Partnership to provide legal representation and education to veterans experiencing, or at risk of experiencing, homelessness and income insecurity. Caillean holds a J.D. from Villanova University Charles Widger School of Law and a bachelor's degree in international/global studies from American University. She is sponsored by Lockheed Martin Corporation.
In addition to serving as LASP Intern in summer 2023, she was a law clerk at Stern & Cohen, P.C. in Philadelphia and Summer Associate and paralegal at Klasko Immigration Law Partners, LLP. Caillean also was a Student Attorney/Certified Legal Intern for the Farmworker Legal Aid Clinic at Villanova Law and a Legal Extern at Community Legal Services. She was a Development Fellow and intern at J Street and interned for Refugees International and The Atlantic. Caillean can be reached at 610-549-4697 or cdaily@lasp.org.
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Kevin M. Kulesza, Staff Attorney in Doylestown | |
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DOYLESTOWN - Kevin M. Kulesza joined LASP July 15 as Staff Attorney based in Doylestown. He holds a J.D. from Temple University Beasley School of Law and a B.A. in English, with honors, from The Pennsylvania State University at Abington. Prior to joining LASP, he served as a Document Review Attorney at Dauntless Discovery. His work spanned multiple industries, including medical care facilities and government contractors.
He was an Assistant Researcher at Temple Law from January-May 2020 in the Access to Justice Clinic. Under the supervision of Professor Rieser, he contributed to a research program addressing the high rate of default judgments in eviction court proceedings in Philadelphia. He was a member of Alpha Mu Chi, the Abington Branch of the International English Honor Society Sigma Tau Delta. He served as a writing tutor and journalist for The Lion's Roar, the student newspaper at Penn State Abington. He also was a volunteer tutor in English, history and math. Kevin can be reached at 215-770-4056 or kkulesza@lasp.org.
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Diana L. Martin, Administrative Assistant in Chester City | |
 |  | CHESTER City - Diana L. Martin joined LASP July 15 as Administrative Assistant in the Chester City Office, Delaware County. She is a seasoned administrative professional with a broad range of experience in high-level support roles. Diana most recently served as Special Project Associate / Administrative Assistant for RBC Trust & Wealth Management, Wilmington from 2015-2023. Prior roles included Executive Assistant at WSFS Bank in Wilmington; Administrative Assistant for Lee Hecht Harrison / Capital One; Administrative Assistant / Human Resources for Amtrak in Wilmington; Administrative Assistant / Human Resources for Vitalize in Kennett Square; and Executive Assistant / Event Planner for Salomon Smith Barney Consulting Group in Wilmington. She studied Business Administration at West Chester University, Wesley College in New Castle, Delaware, and Delaware Technical Community College in Wilmington. She is a Notary Public in Delaware. Diana can be reached at 610-230-7792 or dmartin@lasp.org.
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Joyce Schaedler, VOCA Staff Attorney in West Chester | |
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WEST CHESTER - Joyce Schaedler joined LASP Sept. 9 as VOCA Staff Attorney serving Chester County. She joins the West Chester Office from Gillette, Wyoming, where she most recently served as Program Attorney for the Wyoming Coalition Against Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Legal Program. She represented survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault and trafficking across Wyoming in cases involving protection orders, domestic relations, termination of parental rights, criminal justice advocacy, and Title IX.
Previously, Joyce was Assistant Professor at Northern Wyoming Community College District - Gillette College, where she taught criminal law, constitutional law, criminal procedure and accounting courses, both in-person and online. As partner in Fuller & Schaedler Law Offices, P.C., she handled civil litigation, domestic relations and family law, juvenile delinquency and supervision, and child abuse matters. She was Deputy County and Prosecuting Attorney for Campbell County, Wyoming, where she prosecuted misdemeanor and felony cases and represented the state in child abuse and neglect cases, and provided guardian ad litem services. At the Wyoming Public Defender’s Office, she began as assistant public defender and became the Supervising Senior Attorney in the Wyoming Sixth Judicial District. She represented defendants charged with felony and misdemeanor offenses and juvenile cases from the initial appearance through the appeals process. She earned her J.D. from the University of Wyoming College of Law and a B.S. in finance from the University of Wyoming’s College of Commerce and Industry. Joyce can be reached at 610-596-1176 or jschaedler@lasp.org.
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Pro Bono Month ~ Thank you for your service! | |
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In celebration of Pro Bono Month, we extend a heartfelt thank you for your dedication in support of Legal Aid of Southeastern PA's clients.
Your contributions play a critical role in guaranteeing that more people have access to exceptional legal advocacy, regardless of their financial resources.
Your service truly makes a difference.
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Letters to Pennsylvania attorneys from PA Chief Justice Debra Todd | |
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PITTSBURGH - Pennsylvania Supreme Court Chief Justice Debra Todd discussed pro bono service in her May Law Day letter and October Pro Bono Month letter to Pennsylvania attorneys.
She wrote in May, in part, “If you already donate your time to pro bono service, I thank you. And, if you have not yet found the time to perform pro bono service, I urge you to commit to doing so & encourage the young lawyers who work for you to do the same.
“Together, we truly can make a difference.”
Links to both letters are below.
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Lawyering Together with Villanova University
NORRISTOWN - Attorneys Timothy M. Knowles, Anita M. Seth and Rising 3L students from Villanova University Charles Widger School of Law shared highlights from their summer piloting the "Lawyering Together" program at a CLE Aug. 21 at the Montgomery Bar Association. The attorneys each worked with a pair of students on a pro bono case for a LASP client.
The MBA Pro Bono Committee hosted the CLE, “Lawyering Together: Lawyers & Students Working Together for the Community,” to help kickstart the partnership between Villanova Law, LASP and the MBA.
Melina Dixon, LASP Staff Attorney & Montgomery County Pro Bono Coordinator, moderated the discussion and reviewed the ethics involved when working with students to complete legal work. Lawyering Together is a great opportunity for attorneys to help students develop their skills while also giving back to the local community.
Pictured (from left): Janine Dunlap-Kiah, Villanova University Charles Widger School of Law Director of Public Service & Pro Bono Initiatives & Adjunct Professor of Law; Melina Dixon; Anita Seth; law students Nicolas, Jacoby Johnson and Anthony Ryback; Timothy Knowles; and law student Amanda Martinez.
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Senior Legal Clinic in Pottstown
POTTSTOWN - At a Senior Legal Clinic in Pottstown Sept. 30, pro bono volunteers helped seven people draft simple wills, durable Powers of Attorney and/or healthcare directives.TriCounty Active Adult Center (TRAAC) hosted the event, held in partnership with the Montghomery Bar Association and LASP.
LASP thanks all volunteers who provided pro bono assistance at the clinic: Mark Davis, Stephanie Henrick, Tiimothy Knowles, Lucy Qiu, Franqui Raffaele, Diane Sabowski and Eileen Schaffer.
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Eileen Schaffer (at left) with Melina Dixon, LASP Staff Attorney & Montgomery County Pro Bono Coordinator. | |
Stephanie Henrick (at left), Mayor of Pottstown, visited the Senior Legal Clinic. Mayor Henrick is pictured with Erika Felpel, LASP Norristown Paralegal. | |
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U.S. Rep. Scanlon hosts LASP interns & staff
CHESTER City - LASP interns and staff enjoyed a fantastic and informative visit to Congresswoman Mary Gay Scanlon’s office in Chester City on July 26. Rep. Scanlon discussed her career path and the impact of legal services organizations. Afterwards, LASP interns and staff returned to LASP's Chester City office for lunch to celebrate the end of the summer internship program.
FRONT ROW (from left): Erika Becker, Pro Bono Director; Erika Felpel, Pro Bono Paralegal; Rachael Robles, Martin Luther King, Jr. & Delaware County intern; Megan Reinprecht, Community Engagement Unit (CEU) Staff Attorney; Congresswoman Mary Gay Scanlon; Nadia Cho, CEU intern; and Maria Simeone, Delaware County intern.
BACK ROW: Carin Holmes, Doylestown intern; Cassidy Heiserman, Staff Attorney & Delaware County Pro Bono Coordinator; Elizabeth Henning, Norristown intern; Richard Prebil, Veterans Advocacy Project Supervising Attorney; Charles Burrows, Staff Attorney; and Linnea Mayo, CEU intern.
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Pro bono news & opportunities | |
Bucks County Bar Association Pro Bono Week Celebration - Oct. 24 | |
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Thursday, Oct. 24 from 3-6 p.m.
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at the Bucks County Bar Association, 135 E. State St., Doylestown, PA 18901
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Register: https://bit.ly/BCBA-10-24-2024. Complimentary for BCBA members.
DOYLESTOWN - Join the Bucks County Bar Association for its annual Pro Bono Week Celebration , including a CLE, pro bono awards, and reception at the BCBA.
- CLE 3-4 p.m. (1 ethics credit)
- Awards & Reception 4-6 p.m.
About the CLE
"Pennsylvania Free Legal Answers" CLE with David Keller Trevaskis, Director of Pro Bono Services for the Pennsylvania Bar Association (PBA), and Bill Baldwin, PBA Deputy Director of Pro Bono Services.
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Chester County Bar Association Pro Bono Volunteer Reception - Oct. 24 | |
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WEST CHESTER - Join the Chester County Bar Association for a Pro Bono Volunteer Reception celebrating your hard work and dedication to pro bono service.
Beer, wine and appetizers will be served.
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Montgomery Bar Association Pro Bono Month CLE, Networking & Cocktails, Keystone Pro Bono Awards & Presidential Service Awards - Oct. 30 | |
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Wednesday, Oct. 30 from 3:30-5:30 p.m.
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at the Montgomery Bar Association, 100 W. Airy St., Norristown,. PA 19401
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Register: https://bit.ly/MBA-10-30-2024 (free)
NORRISTOWN - Join the Montgomery Bar Association for its Pro Bono Celebration, including a CLE on Nonprofit Essentials, networking & cocktails, followed by the Keystone Pro Bono Awards & Presidential Service Awards. The event is presented in partnership with the MBA, Montgomery Bar Foundation, and the Bucks-Mont Collaborative.
About the CLE: "Maximizing the Nonprofit Board Member Experience"
(1 Credit, Substantive)
At the core of successful nonprofits is a high-performing board of directors. These boards serve the organization's mission and act as stewards of its resources and architects of its strategic direction. Effective boards provide crucial oversight, guidance, and support to advance the organization's mission, vision, values, and strategic goals. Key to this success is clarity around the roles and responsibilities of board members, and an understanding of the expectations of board service.
Presenter Elizabeth Vibber, M.S., Director of the Catalyst Center for Nonprofit Management, has 30+ years’ experience providing strategic consultation to both the public and private sectors. Her projects have included the development of business and strategic plans, governance consulting, mergers and collaborations, needs assessments, survey design, succession planning and executive searches. During this interactive workshop, we will discuss best practices from both the organizational and individual perspectives.
Reception & awards
Cocktails and networking will follow the CLE, along with the presentation of the Keystone Pro Bono Awards and the President's Volunteer Service Awards.
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LASP Virtual CLE: Eviction Defense for Pro Bono Attorneys - Nov. 7 | |
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LASP's Pro Bono Program presents a virtual CLE, "Eviction Defense for Pro Bono Attorneys." The training will provide practical advice for assisting tenants at eviction hearings in Bucks, Chester, Delaware & Montgomery counties.
Rising housing costs make eviction one of the biggest issues facing low-income residents in the Philadelphia suburbs. Tenants with representation are shown to get better outcomes in MDJ court. Gaining extra time in the home or lowering costs and fees can have a significant impact for LASP clients.
PRESENTERS:
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Kelly Young, LASP Staff Attorney based in Chester County
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Hon. Mackenzie Smith, Magisterial District Court 15-1-02
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Cassidy Heiserman, LASP Staff Attorney based in Chester City, & Delaware County Pro Bono Coordinator
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A multitude of pro bono opportunities across the counties! | |
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LASP is looking for volunteers to assist with pro bono opportunities through Legal Aid of Southeastern PA in Bucks, Chester, Delaware & Montgomery counties!
Here are some of the areas where volunteers are needed:
- Representing tenants facing eviction.
- Drafting simple wills, healthcare directives & powers of attorney for seniors.
- Representing PFA plaintiffs in Bucks County on any Wednesday (limited scope).
- Representing individuals with no asset and no contest divorces.
- Assisting with Chapter 7 bankruptcies.
- Representing parents at custody conferences on a limited scope basis.
- Assisting individuals with criminal record-clearing (expungements, pardons, etc.).
- Helping with Chester County mobile home tax reassessments.
Interested in learning more? Scroll down for some specific current needs. Or visit lasp.org/pro-bono or email probono@lasp.org.
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Bucks County pro bono opportunities | |
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Simple wills for Lower Bucks County seniors
LASP provides assistance to low-income Bucks County seniors for simple wills. We have an increased unmet need for attorneys in Lower Bucks County. Earn free CLE credit while helping seniors have peace of mind.
For more information or to sign up, please contact Randi Riefner, Paralegal, at rriefner@lasp.org or 215-770-4067.
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Eviction prevention program in Lower Makefield Township courtroom | |
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Thursdays at 1 p.m.
- in Judge Kronnagel’s MDJ Court, 31 E. Cleveland Ave., Morrisville, PA 19067
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Limited-scope | 1-afternoon volunteer commitment with no expectation of continued representation
MORRISVILLE - Pro bono attorneys are needed for an eviction prevention pilot project providing legal representation to tenants who do not have an attorney and who volunteer to participate, while also connecting them with social services.
Volunteer attorneys can select any Thursday afternoon(s) to assist.
The project is a collaboration between the Bucks County Bar Association Pro Bono Committee, LASP, and Bucks County Opportunity Council (BCOC), with support from the Bucks County Dept. of Housing & Community Development.
Research shows that tenants with legal representation have significantly better outcomes in landlord-tenant court. Evictions can have devastating short- and long-term impacts on renters, including homelessness and negative health outcomes, and can severely limit future housing opportunities.
To learn more or sign up, contact Megan Reinprecht at mreinprecht@lasp.org. | Website article.
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Represent plaintiffs at PFA hearings any Wednesday in Doylestown | |
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DOYLESTOWN - Represent plaintiffs at Protection from Abuse (PFA) hearings, held every Wednesday. CHOOSE ANY DAY(S)! Volunteers for plaintiffs are especially needed on Wednesday, Nov. 20 & 27!
LIMITED SCOPE pro bono opportunity, with no expectation of continued representation beyond the day of volunteer service. New volunteers can observe PFA Day and learn from staff and current volunteers before committing to provide representation. You do NOT need to be a family law attorney to participate. Hearings are at Bucks County Justice Center, Doylestown.
To volunteer for plaintiffs, contact Durene McCarty at dmccarty@lasp.org or 215-398-6757. To volunteer for defense, contact Kristen Norcross at the Bucks County Bar Association.
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Delaware County pro bono opportunities | |
Ongoing: Pro bono attorneys needed for multiple practice areas | |
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Make a difference in Delaware County! Pro bono opportunities include no fault, no asset divorces; simple wills, powers of attorney, healthcare directives for seniors; custody (limited scope available); and other civil legal issues low-income individuals face. Your volunteer service improves access to justice.
Divorce
Pro bono volunteers are needed to represent clients in no fault, no asset divorces. The divorces are either by consent or one-year separation and do not involve equitable distribution, custody, support, or fault grounds. Typically, a pro bono volunteer will not need to appear at a court proceeding in these cases.
Custody
Pro bono volunteers are needed to represent clients in custody cases in a limited scope, pursuant to the PA Rules of Professional Conduct and Delaware County’s limited entry of appearance rule. Delaware County's Rule 1012 permits attorneys to withdraw by praecipe after representation at the number of custody conferences agreed to in advance.
To learn more or sign up, please contact Cassidy Heiserman, Staff Attorney & Delaware County Pro Bono Coordinator, at cheiserman@lasp.org. Or register at lasp.org/volunteer-signup.
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Montgomery County pro bono opportunities | |
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Divorce cases | Custody cases | Lansdale outreach
More details about each opportunity are at lasp.org/pro-bono, or contact Melina Dixon, Staff Attorney and Montgomery County Pro Bono Coordinator, at 484-275-0463 or mdixon@lasp.org.
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Eviction prevention in 7 courts across the county as part of EPIC | |
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Limited-scope | 1-day volunteer commitment with no expectation of continued representation
- Choose your day of service
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Choose your preferred courtroom location from 7 participating MDJ courts across Montgomery County
The Eviction Prevention & Intervention Coalition (EPIC) started in 2017 in one courtroom in Norristown and is currently in seven Magisterial District Justice courtrooms across Montgomery County: three in Norristown, two in Pottstown, and one each in East Norriton and Jenkintown.
Volunteer attorneys appear in court to help those facing eviction. To learn more or volunteer for EPIC, please contact Michelle Dempsky, LASP Staff Attorney & lead attorney with EPIC, at mdempsky@lasp.org. EPIC also connects people facing eviction with social services through YWCA Tri-County.
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Stay tuned:
pro bono
CLEs!
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Three years after the storm, LASP continues to provide disaster legal aid | |
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Three years after Hurricane Ida swept through Pennsylvania, Legal Aid of Southeastern PA (LASP) continues to help low-income survivors in Bucks, Chester, Delaware and Montgomery counties with legal problems caused by the Sept. 1, 2021 storm.
LASP’s work on Hurricane Ida is funded through a disaster legal services grant from Legal Services Corporation (LSC). LASP services are free to people in the four counties who meet income guidelines.
All four counties in LASP’s service area were part of the federal disaster declaration for Hurricane Ida in PA. The declaration in September 2021 included Bedford, Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Montgomery, Northampton, Philadelphia and York counties.
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Call 877-429-5994 Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-1 p.m., or leave a message 24/7. You also can apply online at lasp.org/apply. Be sure to say that Hurricane Ida impacted your legal problem.
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Pictured at left: Charles Burrows, LASP Staff Attorney, presented an introduction to disaster law in a virtual staff training on Oct. 17. He shared information about FEMA disaster assistance, how to stay prepared for a natural disaster, and more.
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Property Tax / Rent Rebate | |
Apply by Dec. 31 for the PA Property Tax/Rent Rebate | |
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Check if you qualify for Pennsylvania’s Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program. The deadline to apply has been extended to Tuesday, Dec. 31.
It’s free to apply for the rebate. You may be able to receive up to $1,000 on property taxes or rent paid in 2023.
More people are eligible for the rebate:
Pennsylvania residents must have a household income of $45,000 or less per year, and meet the age guidelines (at least one of the following):
- 65 and older
- Widows and widowers age 50 and older
- People with disabilities age 18 and older
Get more details + links at lasp.org/news.
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More than half of Americans mistakenly think they have a right to an attorney in civil cases; new survey also shows many don’t seek legal help with civil matters that can be life-altering | |
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WASHINGTON – More than half of Americans (56%) mistakenly believe they are entitled to free legal representation if they cannot afford a lawyer for civil matters, and 18% are unsure, according to a new survey. That number is even higher for young adults (18-34) with two of three (67%) holding this belief.
“The lack of awareness among Americans about the resources available to them regarding civil legal matters is concerning and points to how much work still needs to be done to ensure all Americans have access to the legal system,” said Ronald Flagg, president of the Legal Services Corporation (LSC), a major federal funder of LASP.
Harris Poll results | LSC "Talk Justice" podcast (25 min.)
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LASP will have tables at multiple events geared to seniors in upcoming weeks! Many are hosted by state legislators and community partners.
For details, including registration information, click the event titlle or visit lasp.org/events.
- Saturday, Oct. 19 & Nov. 23 from 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
- at 7200 Chestnut St., Upper Darby, PA 19082 (entrance on Long Lane)
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In partnership with Breaking Bread Community Shelter, Villanova Law & Troutman Pepper
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Thursday, Oct. 24 from 11 a.m.-1 p.m.
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at American Legion Post 926, 3220 Concord Road, Aston, PA 19014
- Hosts: Rep. Leanne Krueger & Sen. John Kane
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Thursday, Oct. 24 & Nov. 21 from 11 a.m.-1 p.m.
- at Manna on Main Street / North Penn Commons, 606 E. Main St., Lansdale, PA 19446
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Saturday, Oct. 26 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
- at Delaware County Community College Marple Campus, Academic Building in the Café area, 901 S. Media Line Road, Media, PA 19063
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Register: dccc.edu/expungement-clinic
- Saturday, Oct. 26 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
- at Greater Philadelphia Expo Center, Hall D, 100 Station Ave., Oaks, PA 19456
- Register: SenatorMuth.com/event//VetExpo or call Sen. Muth's office at 610-792-2137
- Host: Sen. Katie Muth
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Wednesday, Nov. 13 from 9 a.m.-12 p.m.
- at PA CareerLink of Chester County, 479 Thomas Jones Way, Suite 500, Exton, PA 19380
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Register: ablevins@uwchestercounty.org
- Also in partnership with United Way of Chester County
- Thursday, Nov. 14 from 5:30-7:30 p.m.
- at Upper Darby One Center (municipal building), 100 Garrett Road, Upper Darby, PA 19082
- Hosts: State Sen. Tim Kearney and Rep. Gina Curry
- Register: call Sen. Kearney’s offce at 610-544-6120 or Rep. Curry’s offce at 610-259-7016
- Saturday, Nov. 16 from 8 a.m.-4 p.m.
- at Chester City Hall, 1 E. 4th St,, Chester, PA 19013
- Host: Veterans Administration
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Staff recognized for service | |
LASP staff & interns at 2024 Staff Retreat June 28 at Elmwood Park Zoo, Norristown. | |
2024 Staff Awards
Click each staff member's name to read more.
Maryjane B. Kelley Award
Nanci Hoover, Helpline Supervising Attorney
Jean Gauger, Pottstown Office Manager
Patricia Brooks Award
Durene McCarty, Bristol Office Manager
Rising Star Award
Richard A.J. Prebil, Veterans Advociacy Project Supervising Attorney
| From left: Staff award recipients Nanci Hoover, Jean Gauger, Durene McCarty and Richard Prebil with Carolyn Johnson, Chief Counsel, and Shawn Boehringer, Executive Director. | |
Service pins presented
Pins honoring staff members with 5-45+ years of service were presented at the staff retreat.
THANK YOU TO STAFF FOR YOUR SERVICE!
5-year pins (5-9 years of service)
Erika Becker, Michelle R. Dempsky, Kimberly Hollenback, Guy Marinari,
Kathryn M. Palladino, Richard A.J. Prebil & Karen Vogel
10-year pins (10-14 years of service)
Erica Briant, Michael E. Kelley & Mitsue Shafer
15-year pin (15-19 years of service)
Chris Walter
20-year pin (20-24 years of service)
Carol Wilbur
30-year pin (30-34 years of service)
Randi Riefner
45-year pins (45-49 years of service)
Susan Rizzardi & Michelle R. Terry
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45-year pin
Michelle R. Terry
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45-year pin
Susan Rizzardi
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5-year pins
Richard A.J. Prebil (2nd from left), Kathryn M. Palladino, Guy Marinari, Kimberly Hollenback, Michelle R. Dempsky and Erika Becker, with Carolyn Johnson (at left) and Shawn Boehringer. Missing: Karen Vogel.
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Erica Briant (second from left), Chris Walter, Carol Wilbur & Randi Riefner receive service pins from Carolyn Johnson and Shawn Boehringer. | |
PLAN Martin Luther, King Jr. Intern reception | |
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HARRISBURG - The Pennsylvania Legal Aid Network (PLAN) celebrated Martin Luther King, Jr. interns at a reception July 24 in Harrisburg. Rachael Robles served in LASP's Chester City office in Delaware County. She is pictured (front row at left) with Michelle R. Terry, Chester City Managing Attorney, and Carolyn Johnson, Chief Counsel. Back row: Shawn Boehringer, Executive Director, and Richard A.J. Prebil, Veterans Advocacy Project Supervising Attorney.
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'Legally Blonde' at Steel River Playhouse, Pottstown | |
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POTTSTOWN - Before showtime at the July 25 preview of "Legally Blonde: A Musical," LASP Executive Director Shawn Boehringer (pictured at left) joined Steel River Playhouse Executive Director Alec Lee Williams onstage.
Steel River Playhouse invited LASP to partner for the summer production.
Shawn gave a brief overview of LASP's work in Pottstown and Montgomery, Bucks, Chester, and Delaware counties. LASP maintains a longstanding office in Pottstown, and several LASP staff members based in Pottstown and other offices were present to enjoy the show.
Thanks to Lisa Whalen, LASP Pottstown Managing Attorney, for connecting LASP and Steel River Playhouse!
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Criminal Record Advocacy Conferernce
PHILADELPHIA - Several members of LASP's Community Engagement Unit (CEU) attended Community Legal Services of Philadelphia's annual Criminal Record Advocacy Conference on Sept. 26-27 at Ballard Spahr in Philadelphia.
The conference included advocates from around the country to facilitate discussion and share expertise, best practices, and innovative models for record clearing and record advocacy.
Pictured are Megan Reinprecht (at left), CEU Staff Attorney; Laurel Anderson, CEU Staff Attorney; Erica Briant, Director of Community Engagement & Training; and Noelle Gambale, CEU Staff Attorney.
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LASP staff & board on Swede Street
NORRISTOWN - Following LASP's Board of Directors meeting Sept. 11, some board leaders and staff gathered outside the Administrative Office in Norristown.
Pictured are Shawn Boehringer (at left), Executive Director; Donna Cantor, Board Treasurer; Rhonda Sherrod, Bristol Managing Attorney; Stephen Scott, Board Vice President; and Carolyn Johnson, Chief Counsel.
At the meeting, Rhonda discussed her work in elder law and presented a primer on how she helps clients in Bucks County navigate the guardianship process.
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LASP Executive Director Shawn Boehringer (at left) attended "A Conversation with Matthew Desmond" Oct. 9, hosted by Church of the Nativity and Catholic Charities in Timonium, Maryland. | |
Matthew Desmond is on the road discussing his book, "Poverty, By America," which is just out in paperback. He is also the author of the Pulitzer prize-winning "Evicted: Poverty and Profit in the American City," which was recently named to one of the New York Times' list of "100 Best Books of the 21st Century." | |
LASP career opportunities | |
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BRISTOL: Staff Attorney
MEDIA: VOCA Staff Attorney
NORRISTOWN: Executive Administrative Assistant, Helpline Paralegal/Administrative Support Staff (multiple positions), VOCA Paralegal
WEST CHESTER: Staff Attorney & Paralegal
Job descriptions & how to apply: lasp.org/careers
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