Explore the collaboration between CVLS attorneys and DePaul University College of Law, empowering law students to advocate for low-income family law clients. Witness the dedication and achievements of these students as they handle diverse cases, from divorces to custody disputes and adoptions, positively impacting the lives of those they represent.
Join Child Rep volunteer Shenita Johnson on a challenging journey as she advocates for the best interests of eight children caught in a custody dispute driven by the father’s desire to reduce child support. Witness Shenita’s determination and strategic negotiation skills as she ensures that the children’s primary caregiver, their mother, retains majority parenting time while establishing guidelines to foster effective communication and minimize future conflicts between the parents.
Step into a heart-wrenching journey as volunteer Jennifer Friedman represents the best interests of a 13-year-old gender fluid child caught in the midst of a custody battle. Witness the struggles, therapy attempts, and intricate investigation that shape the child’s fate and mental well-being, as Jennifer fights for a resolution that honors the child’s identity and safeguards their future.
Dive into the inspiring work of Lauren Isenhart and Tony Walner as they dedicate their time at CVLS to help undocumented children achieve stability and a pathway to citizenship in the United States. Witness their relentless efforts in representing Eva and Zeily, as they navigate complex legal processes and secure a brighter future for these families.
Discover the inspiring story of Mark Singler, a volunteer attorney with CVLS, as he advocates for the rights and independence of Ms. P., an adult with schizoaffective and bipolar disorders. Follow their journey through hospitalizations, legal battles, and the pursuit of the least restrictive option in this compelling article.
Chicago Volunteer Legal Services (CVLS) successfully helped Arnesia and her family to challenge a foreclosure filed by Wilmington Trust and to file a counterclaim for reformation of the note. After years of litigation, a bench trial was held in front of Judge Weaver-Boyle, and she ruled in favor of Arnesia and her family. The ruling means that Arnesia’s parent’s trust now owns the home free and clear of all liens. This case is a reminder of the importance of fighting for justice and how much of a difference legal aid services, such as CVLS, can make in people’s lives.
CVLS Volunteer Katie Pancewicz was appointed as GAL for Adrienne in an adult guardianship matter. Despite COVID-19 challenges, Katie met with Adrienne multiple times and presented GAL reports to the Court. Her unwavering commitment paid off, and Adrienne ultimately agreed to guardianship.
PCAP Volunteer Jennifer Wu went the extra mile in helping client Catherine probate her mother’s estate and transfer the home into her name. Jennifer also assisted with applying for tax exemptions, saving Catherine over $1000 in property tax bills. This case highlights the importance of pro bono legal work and the positive impact it can have on clients in need.
In August Judith contacted us regarding her flooded basement. Her insurance was refusing to pay for repairs after a flood. Judith and her husband Howard (pseudonyms) both in their 80s, had lived in their home for many decades. Howard had severe health issues, leaving Judith to manage the finances for the first time. JUF’s clinic …
CVLS Empowers Mother to Advocate for Daughter with Down Syndrome. CVLS’s partnership with the Consulate General of Mexico in Chicago proved to be invaluable in assisting Maria in obtaining guardianship of her adult daughter Mila, who has Downs Syndrome. Maria was referred to CVLS for help and her case was successfully petitioned in Cook County. …
