SERV

On Monday November 23, 2015 I volunteered at the SERV program at the Suffolk County Courthouse. This program is a free legal advice service where lawyers can volunteer their time to advise individuals and/or couples on family matters. I was one of three lawyers working that day and each of us worked with about four cases. I helped draft custody agreements, fill out financial statements, begin the divorce/separation proceedings, all while attempting to mediate all parties involved.
This program is great for both those who use it and those who volunteer. Individuals who cannot afford a personal lawyer and have not been able to make headway on their case due to logistical issues or the inability to find a resolution between the parties can have the opportunity to work with a neutral person trained in family law. But as a lawyer, it is a hands-on way to work on my meditation skills, practice with court forms in a fast paced environment, and to have the opportunity to help people for just a few minutes, which is a very different setting from working with a firm client.
I plan to be back at SERV soon and I encourage any in the Suffolk County in need of legal advice to stop by on a Monday morning.