Loading…
Type: Sessions clear filter
Thursday, May 14
 

10:00am EDT

AI Injustice as a New Frontier for Lawyer-Organizer Advocacy Models
Thursday May 14, 2026 10:00am - 11:15am EDT
Mecklenburg 3
The access-to-justice world has long found community organizing too unfamiliar or risky to integrate fully into lawyer-dominated change-making strategies. But, the present injustices our client communities face call for bold, collective action beyond what lawsuits alone can win. Using leading edge advocacy against AI-related injustices as a backdrop, this session will explore the ways that organizations can integrate lawyering and organizing in advocacy campaigns to secure lasting social change for low-income communities.
Speakers
SG

Susan Garcia Nofi

Senior Attorney, TechTonic Justice
Susan Garcia Nofi is a Senior Attorney at TechTonic Justice. She spent most of her career as a frontline legal aid attorney at Vermont Legal Aid, Central West Justice Center (MA) and New Haven Legal Assistance (CT), where she also served as Deputy Director and Executive Director... Read More →
AR

Andrea Reyes

Sr. Organizing Strategist, TechTonic Justice
Thursday May 14, 2026 10:00am - 11:15am EDT
Mecklenburg 3
  Sessions

10:00am EDT

Belonging Against the Backdrop: Reimagining DEI in Legal Aid
Thursday May 14, 2026 10:00am - 11:15am EDT
Symphony 1
As anti-DEI sentiment continues, sustaining equity work in legal aid is both difficult and necessary. This session examines what it means to continue this work and why a strong DEI programmatic integration remains essential to justice-centered missions. We’ll discuss research-backed benefits of a strong DEI climate—including strategies to increase sense of belonging, staff retention, and long-term organizational health.
Speakers
KH

Kiara Hunt

Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, Legal Aid Services of Oregon
Kiara Hunt (they/them) is the Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at Legal Aid Services of Oregon (LASO). They hold bachelor’s degrees in Psychology and Sociology and are currently a PhD student in Psychology at Oregon State University, where their research centers on liberatory... Read More →
RJ
Thursday May 14, 2026 10:00am - 11:15am EDT
Symphony 1
  Sessions

10:00am EDT

Bringing Home the Crisis in Legal Aid Funding
Thursday May 14, 2026 10:00am - 11:15am EDT
Symphony 6
Legal Services Alabama, in partnership with the Alabama State Bar Volunteer Lawyers Program, presented a mini legal aid simulation at the state bar annual meeting. While the activity took less than 30 minutes, participants left with an understanding of how difficult it can be to obtain civil legal assistance, how the difficulty is increasing due to funding cuts, and how attorneys can step up to help. This session will be a roadmap to creating such a simulation and a discussion about how interactive experiences such as this can result in a deeper understanding and desire to help.
Speakers
LS

Lisa Singer

Pro Bono Manager, Legal Services Alabama
Lisa Singer is the Pro Bono Manager for Legal Services Alabama (LSA), the only LSC grantee in the state of Alabama. A practicing attorney for over 30 years, Lisa spent the bulk of her career in private practice, primarily doing commercial litigation and insurance coverage work. Immediately... Read More →
HA
avatar for Felecia Pettway

Felecia Pettway

Director of Development, Legal Services Alabama
Felecia Zigler Pettway joined LSA in April 2017 as a Managing Attorney of the Selma Office; during her tenure as managing attorney, she successfully increased the office presence and caseload by 300%, representing clients in public benefits, housing, consumer protection, education... Read More →
Thursday May 14, 2026 10:00am - 11:15am EDT
Symphony 6
  Sessions

10:00am EDT

Building the Pipeline: Cultivating Pro Bono Leadership Across Career Stages
Thursday May 14, 2026 10:00am - 11:15am EDT
Carolina D&E
This dynamic session will explore how legal aid organizations, law schools, and law firms can collaborate to embed pro bono across all career stages—from law students to young lawyers to experienced practitioners. Panelists will share strategies for engagement, mentorship, and developing pro bono leaders. Breakout sessions will offer participants the opportunity to experiment with the design of models that maximize engagement and contribute to a thriving pro bono future.
Speakers
SL

Sarah Lahlou-Amine

Shareholder, Buchanan Ingersoll & Rooney PC
Sarah Lahlou-Amine is a Shareholder at Buchanan Ingersoll & Rooney's DC office and proudly serves on the firm's Pro Bono Committee. Practicing in both Florida and DC, Sarah is a seasoned appellate specialist who has litigated hundreds of matters in state and federal appellate courts... Read More →
JH

Jeffrey Harvey

CEO, Community Legal Services
Jeff was appointed to the Chief Executive Officer position in April 2020 but is no stranger to leadership or public service.

He graduated from Boston College in 2001 with his BA in Political Science and Theology. After college, Jeff was commissioned as an officer in the US Army where he completed training as a Ranger. While in the Army, Jeff completed his Master’s in Human Development and Leadership... Read More →
SN

Sylvia Novinsky

Director, NC Pro Bono Resource Center, NC Equal Access to Justice Commission
Sylvia K. Novinsky

Director, NC Pro Bono Resource Center

Equal Access to Justice Commission



Bio:



Sylvia K. Novinsky is the director of the NC Pro Bono Resource Center, a program of theNorth Carolina Equal Access to Justice Commission. She has been in this role since 2016... Read More →
EE
Thursday May 14, 2026 10:00am - 11:15am EDT
Carolina D&E
  Sessions

10:00am EDT

Finding the Story in the Numbers: Turning Court Data into Action
Thursday May 14, 2026 10:00am - 11:15am EDT
Governers 1&2
Data has the power to expose inequities—but too often, the numbers we need are buried in messy, incomplete, or confusing records, or are missing altogether. This session uses research on court fines and fees to show how advocates can turn fragmented or missing data into persuasive stories to drive systemic change. Participants will learn practical strategies for requesting, collecting, and interpreting datasets, overcoming reporting gaps, and translating findings into narratives that strengthen advocacy.
Speakers
TP

Tanisha Pierrette

Senior Research Analyst, Fines and Fees Justice Center
Tanisha Pierrette is a Senior Research Analyst at the Fines and Fees Justice Center (FFJC), where she specializes in analyzing trends to help drive meaningful reform in the criminal legal system. She supports advocates and policymakers by providing tailored research on court-imposed... Read More →
LP

Lillian Patil

Senior Analyst, State and Local Budgets, Fines and Fees Justice Center
Lillian Patil is a Senior Analyst, State & Local Budgets at the Fines and Fees Justice Center. As part of the policy and research team, she brings a budget and public finance lens to FFJC’s efforts at the national, state, and local levels, working with advocates, policy makers... Read More →
Thursday May 14, 2026 10:00am - 11:15am EDT
Governers 1&2
  Sessions

10:00am EDT

Hot Topics in Civil Legal Aid
Thursday May 14, 2026 10:00am - 11:15am EDT
Carolina A
This session will focus on developments at the Legal Services Corporation, the ABA Standing Committee on Legal Aid and Indigent Defense, and the National Legal Aid & Defender Association. Presenters will address these issues from their respective institutional perspectives, with discussion of developments in Congress and the federal executive branch and updates on issues and initiatives facing the legal profession and the equal justice community, including policies and practices, funding, and critical programs like Public Service Loan Forgiveness.
Speakers
avatar for Jason Vail

Jason Vail

Legal Services Division Director, American Bar Association
Jason T. Vail is the Director of the American Bar Association (ABA) Division for Legal Services, where he leads the Division’s mission to expand access to justice for all persons through the provision of, and appropriate funding for, legal assistance, counsel, and representation... Read More →
RS

Radhika Singh

National Legal Aid and Defender Association
RS

Ronald S. Flagg

President, Legal Services Corporation
Ron Flagg was appointed President of the Legal Services Corporation effective February 20, 2020 and has served as Vice President for Legal Affairs and General Counsel since 2013. He previously practiced commercial and administrative litigation at Sidley Austin LLP for 31 years, 27... Read More →
Thursday May 14, 2026 10:00am - 11:15am EDT
Carolina A
  Sessions

10:00am EDT

Justice Metamorphosis: Courts Innovating e-Filing Technology to Provide Access and Empower Survivors
Thursday May 14, 2026 10:00am - 11:15am EDT
Symphony 3
Drafting a petition is a vital first step for survivors seeking protection orders. Yet, the petition process is often confusing and time-consuming—particularly for pro se survivors navigating this process without the guidance of an attorney or advocate. E-filing offers a meaningful solution to many of these challenges. This session will highlight lessons learned by courts involved in a national technical assistance initiative, best practices for trauma-informed e-filing design, advocacy engagement strategies, and real-world success stories.
Speakers
SM

Sarah Mauet

UX4Justice Director and Professor of PracticenDirector of System and Technology Design, Innovation for Justice (i4J)
Sarah Mauet (she/her) is an award-winning technologist, researcher, designer, and educator whose work centers on social impact technology and justice-system innovation. She is the Director of System and Technology Design for Innovation for Justice (i4J) where she is also a Professor... Read More →
SH

Sarah Hoskinson

Chief of Access to Justice Initiatives, Kansas Judicial Branch
Sarah Hoskinson is the Chief of Access to Justice Initiatives for the Kansas Judicial Branch and serves as Special Projects Counsel to Judicial Administrator Stephanie Smith. In her role she advances programs that reduce barriers to equitable and effective access to the court system... Read More →
AB

Amy Borman

Chief Operating Officer & Chief Legal Officer, Clerk of the Circuit Court & Comptroller, Palm Beach County
Thursday May 14, 2026 10:00am - 11:15am EDT
Symphony 3
  Sessions

10:00am EDT

Promising Practices For Veterans Discharge Upgrade Applications Based On Racial Discrimination
Thursday May 14, 2026 10:00am - 11:15am EDT
Symphony 5
Veterans without an honorable discharge from military service face impediments to accessing VA benefits, healthcare, education, and employment. Veterans of color receive a disproportionate share of less-than-honorable discharges. For those veterans, a discharge upgrade represents improved healthcare access and economic security. This session will use quantitative and qualitative research and analysis of recent administrative decisions to provide veterans advocates with promising practices for upgrade applications that sound in racial discrimination or harassment.
Speakers
AP

Alden Pinkham

Staff Attorney and Policy Analyst, Connecticut Veterans Legal Center
Thursday May 14, 2026 10:00am - 11:15am EDT
Symphony 5
  Sessions

10:00am EDT

Protecting SNAP and Medicaid Access in Light of HR 1 Changes
Thursday May 14, 2026 10:00am - 11:15am EDT
Mecklenburg 2
In July 2025, H.R. 1 was passed, making major changes to the SNAP and Medicaid programs. While many people will lose access to SNAP and Medicaid as part of these changes, many more will continue to be eligible but struggle to prove it to their State Agency. This session will discuss appeal rights in both programs and ways this work can be done by existing staff or with pro bono assistance.
Speakers
SM

Skyler M. Rosellini

Skyler Rosellini (he/him) is the Assistant Director of California Policy at the National Health Law Program in Los Angeles, California. Skyler is passionate about advancing health equity for underserved populations and making health access education accessible so people of all backgrounds... Read More →
LH

Lauren Hasen

Staff Attorney, The Public Interest Law Project
Lauren Hansen grew up experiencing poverty in a small rural county in Northern California. She is currently a staff attorney at PILP who works on public benefits, housing, and homelessness cases. Prior to joining PILP, Lauren worked at Legal Services of Northern California providing... Read More →
JM

Jessica Mark

Supervising Attorney, Bay Area Legal Aid
Jessica Mark is a Supervising Attorney at Bay Area Legal Aid. She works in the San Francisco Bay Area, assisting people primarily with their government benefits. She also participates in policy advocacy at the County, State, and Federal levels to improve access to government benefits... Read More →
Thursday May 14, 2026 10:00am - 11:15am EDT
Mecklenburg 2
  Sessions

10:00am EDT

Rethinking Brief Services Evaluation – A Strategic Approach to Understanding the Impact of Brief Services
Thursday May 14, 2026 10:00am - 11:15am EDT
Mecklenburg 1
The Cook County Early Resolution Program is believed to be the nation’s largest sustained program providing brief services to people facing eviction. This session will review prior literature on the assessment of brief services programs and propose an innovative framework and methodology using intake information, attorney assessment of services provided, and post-service survey feedback from clients to assess various measures of effectiveness and impact – and how those measures inform iterative development of program design.
Speakers
NS

Neil Steinkamp

Managing Director, Stout
Neil Steinkamp is a well-recognized expert and consultant on a broad range of strategic, organizational, and financial issues to government, business, court and community leaders. He has 20 years of experience providing transformative change strategies; complex structured and unstructured... Read More →
MM

Melanie MacBride

Chief Grants & Operations Officer, The Chicago Bar Foundation
Melanie MacBride is the Chief Grants & Operations Officer at The Chicago Bar Foundation (CBF), where she oversees and directs the CBF’s grants program and related programs and projects. In addition, she oversees the administrative operations of the CBF, with a lead role in directing... Read More →
Thursday May 14, 2026 10:00am - 11:15am EDT
Mecklenburg 1
  Sessions

10:00am EDT

Speaking with One Voice: Building a Shared Message for America’s Civil Justice System
Thursday May 14, 2026 10:00am - 11:15am EDT
Governers 5&6
How we talk about civil justice shapes whether people understand and support it. This session introduces a national effort to align messaging across courts, legal aid, and the private bar. Panelists will share insights on what resonates with key audiences, how to use clear, nonpartisan language, and how to build a shared narrative that strengthens trust and expands support for civil justice.
Speakers
SN

Samira Nazem

Principal Court Management Consultant, National Center for State Courts
Samira Nazem is a Principal Court Management Consultant at the National Center for State Courts (NCSC) overseeing the Eviction Diversion Initiative which supports state and local courts in designing, implementing, and evaluating eviction diversion programs and related court reform... Read More →
ER

Eve Runyon

Pro Bono Institute
MD

Maria Duvuvuei

Communications Strategist, Legal Services Corporation
Maria Duvuvuei is Communications Strategist at the Legal Services Corporation (LSC), where she leads strategic communications efforts in support of civil legal aid nationwide. Detailed to the Office of Government Relations and Public Affairs, she manages LSC’s communications framework... Read More →
BK

Brittany Kauffman

Institute for the Advancement of the American Legal System
Brittany Kauffman is Chief Executive Officer at IAALS, the Institute for the Advancement of the American Legal System.

Over the last ten years, Brittany has served as a leader in civil justice and judiciary reform in the United States, serving as a facilitator, expert liaison, and consultant to state and federal courts, rules committees, civil justice task forces, and bar organizations. She provides... Read More →
Thursday May 14, 2026 10:00am - 11:15am EDT
Governers 5&6
  Sessions

10:00am EDT

Using Online Dispute Resolution Pre-Suit to Address Medical Debt
Thursday May 14, 2026 10:00am - 11:15am EDT
Symphony 2
Hear from a state preparing to expand its online dispute resolution pilot to a statewide initiative. Steered by the TN ADR Commission and supported by the TN ATJ Commission, the TN AOC has built its own platform to allow creditor hospitals, trained mediators, and debtors to resolve medical debt quickly and efficiently. Panelists will share lessons learned from their experience.
Speakers
DS

Dana Schmidt

Manager, Mediation Programs and Grants, Tennessee Supreme Court, Administrative Office of the Courts
Dana Schmidt is a seasoned legal professional with over two decades of experience in child welfare, family law, and mediation services. A 2002 graduate of Regent University School of Law, she began her career in 2003 as a litigation attorney with the Tennessee Department of Children’s... Read More →
AW

Anne-Louise Wirthlin

Assistant Director; Director of Access to Justice, TN Supreme Court Administrative Office of the Courts / ATJ Commission
Anne-Louise Wirthlin is the Director of Access to Justice and an Assistant Director for the Tennessee Supreme Court Administrative Office of the Courts (AOC). She earned her Bachelor’s degree and J.D. from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. Anne-Louise has an LLM in Taxation... Read More →
AM
LW

Linda Warren Seely

Pro Bono Counsel, Butler Snow, LLP
Linda Seely is a licensed Tennessee lawyer and listed Mediator. She served as the Director of the American Bar Association Dispute Resolution Section in Washington, DC until May of 2021 when she assumed her position at Butler Snow as Pro Bono Counsel. For 20 years, she served as Pro... Read More →
Thursday May 14, 2026 10:00am - 11:15am EDT
Symphony 2
  Sessions

10:00am EDT

Utilizing an Externship, Secondee, or Retiree Model to Grow Pro Bono Engagement
Thursday May 14, 2026 10:00am - 11:15am EDT
Carolina C
This panel will explore how LSOs can grow pro bono capacity by utilizing law firm externs/secondees and retired partners. We will examine real-life examples of successful externship, secondment and retiree programs, with a particular focus on how each is structured based on ethical and practical considerations. Finally, we will discuss the challenges inherent with each model and why the benefits outweigh these challenges. This panel is appropriate for both LSOs and law firms interested in exploring these models. In addition, we welcome those with experience to come and share best practices.
Speakers
SR

Sara Richman

Partner, Chair of Pro Bono, Troutman Pepper Locke LLP
Sara Richman is a partner at Troutman Pepper Locke and chair of the firm’s pro bono practice. In her role, Sara's time is fully dedicated to leading the firm's pro bono practice. Sara works closely with legal aid organizations and other community partners to support pro bono efforts... Read More →
LS

Laura Sinrod

Special Counsel, Pro Bono, Fried, Frank, Harris, Shriver & Jacobson LLP
Laura Israel Sinrod is special counsel and resident pro bono counsel in the New York office of Fried Frank. As pro bono counsel, Laura is responsible for directing Fried Frank’s overall pro bono program and supervising individual pro bono projects handled by other attorneys at the... Read More →
LC

Lauren Connell

Pro Bono Counsel, Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld LLP
Lauren Connell is the Pro Bono Counsel at Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld LLP ("Akin"). In this role, she works with Akin's Pro Bono Partner to manage the firmwide pro bono practice and develop pro bono opportunities for Akin lawyers and staff.

Lauren maintains an active immigration practice, with a particular focus on asylum, Violence Against Women Act self-petitions, and U visas. She also advises nonprofit organizations on corporate governance matters. Before becoming pro bono counsel, she practiced corporate law at Akin... Read More →
avatar for Hamra Ahmad

Hamra Ahmad

Head of Legal Programs and Policy, Her Justice, Inc.
Hamra Ahmad is Head of Legal Programs and Policy at Her Justice, a nonprofit organization providing legal services to women living in poverty throughout New York City by training and mentoring volunteer attorneys to address individual and systemic barriers. Ms. Ahmad is co-chair of... Read More →
Thursday May 14, 2026 10:00am - 11:15am EDT
Carolina C
  Sessions

1:15pm EDT

(ETHICS) Automating Solutions for the Sh&! You Don’t Want to Do but Must Do to Keep Your License
Thursday May 14, 2026 1:15pm - 2:30pm EDT
Mecklenburg 1
This session equips leadership, supervisors and attorneys with tools to conduct an Ethics Audit for client, case, and organization management. Participants will learn how to identify risk areas, strengthen internal systems, and comply with professional responsibility obligations by integrating these solutions into day-to-day legal operations, practice management, and supervision. Focus areas include conflicts, client confidentiality and data security, case acceptance procedures, case file management, attorneys’ fees and time tracking, trust accounts, and insurance considerations.
Speakers
MR

Maggie R. Robb

Chief Legal Office, Empire Justice Center
Maggie R. Robb, Esq., is the Chief Legal Officer of Empire Justice Center where she oversees the legal practice, compliance, human resources and serves as general counsel to the organization. She is also a member in the Civil Rights Practice Group where she primarily focuses on impact... Read More →
MF

Melinda Fithen

Litigation Director, Empire Justice Center
Melinda Fithen is the Litigation Director and a member of the Civil Rights Practice Group at Empire Justice Center. Melinda directs and advances the organization’s mission through impact litigation and provides technical assistance, co-counseling, training and strategic support... Read More →
Thursday May 14, 2026 1:15pm - 2:30pm EDT
Mecklenburg 1
  Sessions

1:15pm EDT

(ETHICS) Ethics Quiz Show 2026
Thursday May 14, 2026 1:15pm - 2:30pm EDT
Carolina C
Test your knowledge and learn about new ethical issues for legal service lawyers. We'll cover new changes to Model Rule 1.14 relating to clients with decision making limitations; what lawyers should avoid putting in motions to withdraw under Model Rule 1.6 (Confidentiality) and Rule 1.16 (Declining/Terminating Representation); duties under Model Rules 1.1 (Competence), 1.4 (Communication), and Rule 1.6 when using AI notetaking tools; ephemeral messaging; supervisory duties under Rule 5.3 (Nonlawyer Assistance) when working with allied legal professionals; and more!
Speakers
ER

Ellyn Rosen

Regulation and Global Initiatives Counsel, ABA Center for Professional Responsibility
ELLYN S. ROSEN is the Regulation and Global Initiatives Counsel of the American Bar Association Center for Professional Responsibility. She advises the ABA Standing Committee on Professional Regulation, whose mission is to assist the judiciary and the bar in the development, coordination... Read More →
JK

Jenny K. Mittelman

Attorney at Law, State Bar of Georgia (Retired)
Jenny Mittelman was a lawyer regulator with the State Bar of Georgia for 35 years, where she
prosecuted disciplinary cases and provided ethics advice. She retired from her position as Deputy
General Counsel in March 2024. Before going to work for the State Bar of Georgia she was... Read More →
LG

Lauren Gilbride

Lauren Gilbride is the Managing Attorney of Intake and the Volunteer Lawyers Program at the Legal Aid Society of Cleveland. She oversees an intake department that handles over 25,000 requests for service and provides advice and other assistance to several thousand clients each year... Read More →
Thursday May 14, 2026 1:15pm - 2:30pm EDT
Carolina C
  Sessions

1:15pm EDT

Advocating for Equity in Medicaid Eligibility Systems in the Automation Age
Thursday May 14, 2026 1:15pm - 2:30pm EDT
Symphony 2
Tech companies and policymakers tout automation in programs like Medicaid, promising accuracy, speed, and reduced administrative burden. But, often, the reality does not match this vision. This session will bring together a panel of advocates and technologists to discuss past pitfalls and how we can learn from them. We will focus on advocacy opportunities to improve these systems, highlighting the role of procurement and contracting in shaping these systems and the rights of Medicaid enrollees.
Speakers
SG
EW

Emma Weil

Senior Policy Analyst, Upturn
Emma Weil is a Senior Policy Analyst at Upturn. They use their technology background to support advocates challenging computer systems and algorithms that mediate access to social safety net programs, as part of the Benefits Tech Advocacy Hub. Their work at Upturn also includes major... Read More →
SG

Susan Garcia Nofi

Senior Attorney, TechTonic Justice
Susan Garcia Nofi is a Senior Attorney at TechTonic Justice. She spent most of her career as a frontline legal aid attorney at Vermont Legal Aid, Central West Justice Center (MA) and New Haven Legal Assistance (CT), where she also served as Deputy Director and Executive Director... Read More →
SH

Shandra Harly

Senior Attorney, National Health Law Program
Shandra Hartly is a Senior Attorney at the National Health Law Program (NHeLP), where she works in NHeLP's Eligibility & Enrollment and Services Practice Areas. At NHeLP, much of Shandra's work focuses on issues surrounding algorithms and automated decision-making systems (ADS), and... Read More →
Thursday May 14, 2026 1:15pm - 2:30pm EDT
Symphony 2
  Sessions

1:15pm EDT

Design and Deliver Effective & Engaging Training Programs
Thursday May 14, 2026 1:15pm - 2:30pm EDT
Symphony 1
Pro bono and legal aid professionals are frequently responsible for training others and sharing knowledge. This interactive session will provide practical guidance on how to efficiently design and deliver learning opportunities that achieve goals, resonate with adult learners and promote meaningful engagement.
Speakers
KT
JR

Julia R. Wilson

Coach & Consultant, Julia Wilson Coaching
Julia R. Wilson is a leadership and team coach working with individuals and teams in civil legal services nonprofits across the country. She brings 3 decades of experience in legal services, including roles as a frontline attorney, executive director, and board member. She is certified... Read More →
Thursday May 14, 2026 1:15pm - 2:30pm EDT
Symphony 1
  Sessions

1:15pm EDT

Fostering Collaborative State Agency Partnerships
Thursday May 14, 2026 1:15pm - 2:30pm EDT
Mecklenburg 3
The State Bar of California Office of Access and Inclusion, with the Legal Aid Association of California and the California Access to Justice Commission, are pioneering a model replicable in any state or area by fostering innovative collaboration between legal aid organizations and state agencies. Attendees will learn about groundbreaking collaboration efforts yielding new partnerships, more effective systems, and streamlined materials in critical areas such as housing, immigration, seniors, and veterans. Attendees will also learn about innovative, similar work ongoing in Arizona.
Speakers
EH

Elizabeth Hom

Program Director, State Bar of Calfornia
Elizabeth A. Hom is a Program Director at the State Bar of California, Office of Access & Inclusion, where she advances the State Bar’s efforts for greater access to, and inclusion in, the legal system. Elizabeth supports administration of grants to legal aid organizations throughout... Read More →
LK

Lorin Kline

Director of Advocacy, Legal Aid Association of California
Lorin is the Director of Advocacy at the Legal Aid Association of California and has been with LAAC since early 2014. Lorin leads LAAC's advocacy program, which speaks as the unified voice for the community of more than 100 legal aid organizations in California. LAAC's advocacy aims... Read More →
KB
SA

Samiel a. Thumma

Judge, Arizona Court of Appeals (Chair, Arizona Commission on Access to Justice)
Samuel A. Thumma is a Judge on the Arizona Court of Appeals, Division One, where he has served since 2012, including as Chief Judge. Before that, he served for five years as a trial Judge on the Arizona Superior Court in Maricopa County.
Sam is Secretary of the National Judicial College Board of Trustees. Sam is a Uniform Law Commissioner, most recently serving as Secretary of the Executive Committee. He is an Advisor to the American Law Institute’s RESTATEMENT OF THE LAW (THIRD) OF TORTS: REMEDIES. Sam serves... Read More →
CG

Chris Groninger

Chief Strategy Officer, Arizona Bar Foundation
In her current role as Chief Strategy Officer for the Arizona Bar Foundation, Chris Groninger leads efforts to expand access to legal help across Arizona. Her work focuses on strengthening partnerships, supporting collaboration among stakeholders, and increasing awareness about the... Read More →
Thursday May 14, 2026 1:15pm - 2:30pm EDT
Mecklenburg 3
  Sessions

1:15pm EDT

From Clicks to Clinics: Solving the Puzzle of Pro Bono Clinic Logistics
Thursday May 14, 2026 1:15pm - 2:30pm EDT
Carolina D&E
This session will be a deep dive into the world of legal clinics staffed by pro bono volunteers. This type of clinic has several logistical challenges because it needs to serve many groups: clients, volunteers, pro bono coordinators at legal services organizations, pro bono coordinators at law firms, in-house attorneys, and staff who conduct conflict checks. Having the right systems and processes in place can enable your staff to develop innovative pro bono delivery models.
Speakers
JS

Joseph Schieffer

CEO, A2J Tech
Joseph is the founder and CEO of A2J Tech. A2J Tech is a public benefit corporation that builds technology to improve access to justice.

Joseph holds a Master of Science in Business Administration from the University of Florida, and a Bachelor of Science from the United States Air Force Academy. Joseph enjoys exploring Colorado's outdoors and trail running... Read More →
AL

Anh LyJordan

Director, NC Equal Access to Justice Commission
Anh LyJordan serves as the Director of the Wake County Legal Support Center for the North Carolina Equal Access to Justice Commission. She has previously served as a Project Manager for the Housing Stability Project with the North Carolina Pro Bono Resource Center. In this position... Read More →
MM

Meghan Martie

Restorative Justice Project Director & Senior Staff Attorney, NC Pro Bono Resource Center
Meghan Martie serves as the Restorative Justice Project Director and Senior Staff Attorney with the NC Pro Bono Resource Center, focusing on driver’s license restoration. Meghan oversees pro bono volunteer work and communicates with clients.

Prior to joining the Resource Center, Meghan spent two years volunteering part-time as an attorney with the Wake County Office of the Public Defender, representing clients in District Court. She also clerked for Justice Robin Hudson on the North Carolina Supreme Court of North Carolina... Read More →
VP

Victoria Pan

Project Manager and Legal Innovator, A2J Tech
Victoria Pan, Esq. is a Legal Innovator and a Project Manager at A2J Tech. She has extensive experience in process improvement and intake assessment in the legal services sector. Victoria has led many transformative projects with several notable organizations, including intake assessments... Read More →
Thursday May 14, 2026 1:15pm - 2:30pm EDT
Carolina D&E
  Sessions

1:15pm EDT

From Scarcity to Abundance: #JustOC - A New Model for Collaboration and Innovation
Thursday May 14, 2026 1:15pm - 2:30pm EDT
Governers 5&6
What happens when leaders lean into their strengths as collaborators and abandon the scarcity mindset of the past, in order to better serve the community? This session will share insights gained and best practices learned from Orange County's first all-female team of executives from major legal aid organizations in their pioneering collaborative fundraising effort: to fund the creation of a unified, coordinated entry system for legal aid for Orange County’s low-income communities. The presentation will cover the group’s strategies to create synergy amongst their organizations, to draw in regional foundations into the effort, and to expand outreach to funders outside the group’s usual circles.
Speakers
ME

Monica Eav Glicken

CEO/ Executive Director and General Counsel, Public Law Center
Monica Eav Glicken
CEO/ Executive Director and General Counsel of Public Law Center (PLC)

Monica served as the Directing Attorney of PLC’s Immigration Unit from 2018 to 2022 and is a State Bar-certified Immigration Law expert. After graduating magna cum laude in Literature from Harvard University, Monica served as a Fulbright Fellow in the Philippines and a Corps Member... Read More →
avatar for Kate Marr

Kate Marr

Executive Director, Community Legal Aid SoCal
Kate Marr is the Executive Director at Community Legal Aid SoCal (CLA SoCal), a non-profit legal aid agency with a staff of 150 serving Orange and Los Angeles Counties. Kate is a proud legal-aid lifer, having spent her entire 25-year career in legal services. Immediately prior to... Read More →
avatar for Brooke Weitzman

Brooke Weitzman

Executive Director, Elder Law and Disability Rights Center
Brooke is the Executive Director of The Elder Law and Disability Rights Center (ELDR Center). As a civil rights attorney, she represents communities that would not otherwise have access to a lawyer. Weitzman helped to reduce the criminalization of poverty through litigation and advocacy—including... Read More →
Thursday May 14, 2026 1:15pm - 2:30pm EDT
Governers 5&6
  Sessions

1:15pm EDT

Habeas in Practice: Strategies and Stories from the Front Lines
Thursday May 14, 2026 1:15pm - 2:30pm EDT
Governers 1&2
This panel will offer a practical look at the realities of filing emergency habeas petitions in federal court on behalf of detained immigrants. Featuring pro bono and legal services attorneys who have recently drafted and argued these petitions, the discussion will unpack the time-sensitive nature of habeas litigation, explore staffing models that support rapid response, and highlight common procedural and strategic hurdles. Attendees will gain insight into how teams navigate deadlines, coordinate across organizations, and advocate effectively under pressure in an evolving legal space.
Speakers
JP

Jacqueline Pearce

Pro Bono Immigration Attorney, Fried Frank
Jackie Pearce manages immigration pro bono efforts for the firm’s New York and Washington, DC Offices. As Pro Bono Immigration Attorney, she works closely with our pro bono team to ensure immigration pro bono matters are available to interested attorneys and supervises immigration... Read More →
MJ

Mindy Johnson

Pro Bono Attorney, Fried Frank Shriver Harris and Jacobson LLP
Mindy Johnson manages Fried Frank's pro bono efforts in its Washington, DC office. As Pro Bono Attorney, she develops and supervises pro bono projects and collaborates with legal service organizations in the DMV and nationwide. She, together with Jackie Pearce, represented four individuals... Read More →
HS

Harold Solis

Co-Legal Director, Make the Road New York
Harold is an attorney and the Co-Legal Director of Make the Road New York, the largest grassroots immigrant-led organization in New York state. His work at MRNY includes directing MRNY’s legal strategies and services on a range of issues, including asylum and other humanitarian... Read More →
BD

Beth D. Baltimore

Deputy Director, The Door’s Legal Services Center (LSC)
Beth Baltimore is the Deputy Director of The Door’s Legal Services Center (LSC), where she directs the Pro Bono, Runaway and Homeless Youth and Civil Legal Services programs. She also manages strategic litigation for the LSC and is counsel in E.J.C.C. v. Noem, a habeas petition... Read More →
FE

F. Evan Benz

Senior Attorney, Immigration Impact Lab, Amica Center for Immigrant Rights
F. Evan Benz is a Senior Attorney with the Immigration Impact Lab at Amica Center for Immigrant Rights. Amica Center is a nonprofit legal services organization that seeks to reduce the disproportionate legal injustices detained immigrants face through cutting-edge impact litigation... Read More →
Thursday May 14, 2026 1:15pm - 2:30pm EDT
Governers 1&2
  Sessions

1:15pm EDT

Law Firm and Corporate Engagement in MLPs: A Scalable Model for Access to Justice
Thursday May 14, 2026 1:15pm - 2:30pm EDT
Symphony 5
Across the country, Medical-Legal Partnerships (MLPs) are transforming the way health systems address the social and legal barriers that undermine patient health. While most MLPs partner primarily with legal aid organizations, a more expansive model adds private law firms and corporate legal departments into direct collaboration with hospitals and health centers. These partnerships expand access to justice while offering lawyers uniquely meaningful pro bono opportunities. This session will spotlight VCU Health’s innovative MLP developed in partnership with McGuireWoods and Dominion Energy. VCU Health is the largest safety net hospital in Virginia with more than 13,000 employees and 1,000,000 annual outpatient visits, a Level 1 Trauma Center, and the region’s only full-service Children’s Hospital. Through this model, pro bono attorneys work directly with patients and families who are often seriously ill, navigating complex medical treatment, and would not otherwise have access to legal help but for their visit to the hospital. Attorneys collaborate closely with clinical teams, allowing them to address legal issues that directly affect health—such as housing, education, guardianship, immigration, and custody. Panelists will discuss how the partnership was conceived, structured, and operationalized, including McGuireWoods’ creation of a dedicated internal infrastructure and workflow for receiving, managing, and completing MLP referrals through the JusticeServer platform. The session will highlight key lessons learned in designing a scalable referral system; recruiting and training attorneys to provide services in five different areas of law; and sustaining engagement across a complex network of volunteers, corporate counsel, and hospital teams.  Attendees will gain practical, replicable strategies for building or strengthening MLP collaborations with private-sector partners—expanding the reach of civil legal aid, deepening pro bono engagement, and improving outcomes for patients and families. This panel is designed for law firms, legal aid organizations, health systems, corporate legal departments, and anyone interested in cross-sector models for advancing equitable access to justice.
Speakers
AZ

Angie Zimmern

Pro Bono Director and Counsel, McGuireWoods
As McGuireWoods’ pro bono director, counsel Angie Zimmern expands the firm’s commitment to developing and sustaining pro bono programs recognized nationally for innovation and impact.

Angie leads the firm’s most successful pro bono initiatives, including Charlotte Triage... Read More →
AH

Allison Held

Associate General Counsel and Director, Medical-Legal Partnership, VCU Health System
JR

Jontile Ray

Partner, McGuireWoods LLP
Jontille Ray is a graduate of Duke University and Duke University School of Law and is a partner at McGuireWoods LLP in Richmond, Virginia. Jontille now focuses her practice on energy and utility regulation and compliance before the Virginia State Corporation Commission. Jontille... Read More →
DJ

David J. DePippo

Managing Counsel, Dominion Energy
David J. DePippo is Managing Counsel with Dominion Energy. His practice focus on the development, permitting, and construction of large electric utility infrastructure and utility rate making. His pro bono practice focuses on veterans' educational benefits. Prior to his in-house work... Read More →
avatar for Carol Wyatt

Carol Wyatt

Pro Bono Coordinator, McGuireWoods LLP
Carol Wyatt is the Pro Bono Coordinator at McGuireWoods, where she leads firmwide initiatives that connect attorneys and firm clients with high-impact opportunities to serve individuals and communities in need. She works across offices, practice groups and corporate legal departments... Read More →
Thursday May 14, 2026 1:15pm - 2:30pm EDT
Symphony 5
  Sessions

1:15pm EDT

Legal Aid Funding Landscape & Roundtable Discussion
Thursday May 14, 2026 1:15pm - 2:30pm EDT
Symphony 6
This session will open with brief presentations about the current status of funding for legal aid including updates on federal grants, cy pres, iolta, and significant developments regarding state/territorial legislative appropriations and/or court fines and fees revenue. Also, updates will be provided on the ABA's data collection process to support funding efforts. Participants will then be invited to share their challenges and successes related to funding in a roundtable format and learn from others about what currently works/does not work when trying to increase resources for civil legal aid.
Speakers
AK

Anne K. Sweeney

Chief, Civil Legal Services, National Legal Aid & Defender Association
SD

Shubi Deoras

Counsel/Director, ABA Resource Center for Access to Justice Initiatives
Shubi Deoras has served as Counsel/Director for the ABA Resource Center for Access to Justice Initiatives (a project of the ABA Standing Committee on Legal Aid and Indigent Defendants (SCLAID) since 2017. She also held the position of Assistant Counsel to the ABA Commission on IOLTA... Read More →
JS

Jared S. Smith

Director of Programs, Management Information Exchange (MIE)
Jared Smith is MIE’s Director of Programs, a role in which he works to develop innovative remote and in-person trainings, engaging resources, and effective spaces for collaboration. In this role, he also supports private and legislative fundraising efforts, including by enhancing... Read More →
BB

Bill Boies

Bill Boies is a Senior Counsel at McDermott, Will and Schulte. He focuses his practice on business dispute counseling, class action litigation defense and complex business litigation throughout the country.

Bill leads a McDermott pro bono program that advises national legal aid organizations, IOLTA programs and bar foundations about funding for legal aid programs, including obtaining cy pres awards from the undistributed residue of class action settlement funds. He frequently submits... Read More →
Thursday May 14, 2026 1:15pm - 2:30pm EDT
Symphony 6
  Sessions

1:15pm EDT

Reimagining Access: A Case Study in AI-Powered Online Intake Portals
Thursday May 14, 2026 1:15pm - 2:30pm EDT
Symphony 3
This session showcases an innovative intake portal developed in collaboration with Legal Aid of North Carolina (LANC) and A2J Tech. Attendees will learn how to build AI-enabled portals while also gaining strategies for collaborating with tech partners and ensuring meaningful user adoption through iterative development, testing, and outreach.

The session will highlight key lessons learned from this project, emphasizing the vital role of requirement gathering, rigorous user testing, and collaborative partnerships in achieving impactful outcomes.
Speakers
SM

Scheree M. Gilchrist

Chief Innovation Officer, Legal Aid of North Carolina
Scheree Gilchrist is the Chief Innovation Officer at Legal Aid of North Carolina (LANC).In this position, she oversees the development of a sustainable, strategic plan for innovation that will improve access to justice for clients and improve the way staff works to deliver services... Read More →
MD

Mauricio Duarte

Chief Operating Officer, A2J Tech PBC
Mauricio is a lawyer from Guatemala with an LL.M. from St. Thomas University in Minnesota. He worked for five years in international arbitration before shifting his work to technology and legal innovation. He is the Chief Operating Officer and a Justice Entrepreneur at A2J Tech, a... Read More →
MH

Megan Hennings

Staff Attorney & Program Manager, Innovation Lab, Legal Aid of North Carolina
Megan Hennings is the Innovation Lab’s Program Manager & Staff Attorney. In this role, she oversees internal design processes, staff and community engagement, and technology-driven solutions to enhance legal service delivery, particularly in rural communities. She previously served... Read More →
Thursday May 14, 2026 1:15pm - 2:30pm EDT
Symphony 3
  Sessions

1:15pm EDT

Securing Justice Through Debt Relief: Ensuring Access to the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program
Thursday May 14, 2026 1:15pm - 2:30pm EDT
Carolina A
Public interest legal services organizations should be able to attract professionals to work for them despite lower salaries. And public interest professionals — legal aid attorneys, public defenders, nonprofit advocates, and government workers—should not be limited in making career choices between serving the public and managing unmanageable student debt. Yet, persistent barriers in the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Program deny relief to many who may qualify and the situation might be getting worse. This session will explore recent policy changes, including the Executive Order (EO) directing the U.S. Department of Education to reconsider which organizations are eligible for PSLF – potentially affecting some nonprofits and advocacy groups and their staff. The Department of Education has promulgated rules to exclude from PSLF eligibility organizations that engage in activities deemed to have a “substantial illegal purpose.” Panelists will discuss ongoing advocacy efforts, legal strategies and tools aimed at ensuring access to PSLF. Participants will gain up-to-date guidance to navigate PSLF and learn how to advocate for fairer, more accessible implementation nationwide.
Speakers
ML

Maria L. Imperial

Vice-President, Barbara McDowell Social Justice Center
Maria Imperial serves as Vice-President of the Barbara McDowell Social Justice Center (the “Center”) where she assists in guiding and overseeing the executive responsibilities and strategic direction of the Center. The mission of the Center is to eradicate systemic injustices... Read More →
GM

George Mykulak

Senior Litigation Director, Barbara McDowell Social Justice Center
George Mykulak

Through the Massachusetts Access to Justice Fellows Program, George is the Senior Litigation Director of the Barbara McDowell Social Justice Center. He has over four decades of diverse commercial litigation experience as a first chair trial and appellate attorney at AM Law 100 and 200 l... Read More →
KL

Khandice Lofton

Counsel, Protect Borrowers
Khandice Lofton is Counsel at Protect Borrowers where she works on litigation matters, and advocacy related to consumers and student loan borrowers. Previously, she practiced at Legal Aid of West Virginia fighting to keep families housed and safe. There she learned that neither a... Read More →
VS

Vikram Swaruup

Vikram Swaruup joined Legal Aid DC as Executive Director in February of 2023. He previously worked as the Chief Deputy Attorney General for the District of Columbia.

While at the Office of the Attorney General, he worked closely with Legal Aid DC on a range of issues, including... Read More →
Thursday May 14, 2026 1:15pm - 2:30pm EDT
Carolina A
  Sessions

1:15pm EDT

Using Evidence to Allocate Scarce Resources
Thursday May 14, 2026 1:15pm - 2:30pm EDT
Mecklenburg 2
Using interim results from a new randomized control trial and final results from already-completed randomized studies, we’ll investigate two distinct topics: when does full representation matter and does record-clearing make a difference? Reviewing prior research, we’ll uncover when an evidence base exits, and when it doesn’t. We’ll discuss operationalizing evidence-based triage and relevant research in progress. We’ll close with discussion of the broader and interconnected contexts of these distinct topics and hypotheses for change, while also hearing from the audience.
Speakers
DJ

D. James Greiner

Faculty Director, The Access to Justice Lab at Harvard Law School
RL

Renee L. Danser

Associate Director of Research & Strategic Partnerships, the Access to Justice Lab at Harvard Law School
Renee Danser is the Associate Director of Research and Strategic Partnerships at the Access to Justice Lab at Harvard Law School. After a career as a lawyer and court administrator, Ms. Danser now draws on her knowledge of justice system operations and the pressures on the justice... Read More →
Thursday May 14, 2026 1:15pm - 2:30pm EDT
Mecklenburg 2
  Sessions

2:45pm EDT

(ETHICS) AI in Legal Aid: Ethics, Bias, Privacy, and Regulation
Thursday May 14, 2026 2:45pm - 4:00pm EDT
Carolina A
This session examines how legal aid can responsibly adopt AI. Presenters will explore opportunities for expanding access and reducing costs, while addressing challenges of ethics, bias, privacy, and regulation. Attendees will gain best practices, awareness of emerging standards, and guidance for implementing AI that strengthens justice rather than undermines it.
Speakers
ER

Erin Riker

Supervising Attorney for Technology-Based Legal Services, Center for Elder Law and Justice
Erin Riker is the Supervising Attorney for Technology-Based Legal services at the Center for Elder Law and Justice. In this capacity, she manages the Senior Legal Advice Helpline, the Senior Financial Safety Tool, and the Legal Risk Detector, and chairs the AI Policy Committee. While... Read More →
ES

Ellen Samuel

Chief Operating Officer, Just-Tech
Ellen Samuel is the Chief Operating Officer and Director of Consulting at Just-Tech. With a specialization in developing innovative solutions for the legal sector, Ellen's expertise spans cybersecurity assessments, AI implementation, knowledge management systems, and much more. Her... Read More →
SJ

Sarah J. Duval

Managing Attorney, Center for Elder Law and Justice
Sarah Duval is a managing attorney at the Center for Elder Law and Justice in Buffalo, NY where she works on program development. Prior to this role, Sarah handled cases of elder abuse and exploitation and was a frequent presenter on the topic. Sarah is a member of the Erie County... Read More →
Thursday May 14, 2026 2:45pm - 4:00pm EDT
Carolina A
  Sessions

2:45pm EDT

Building and Sustaining Effective Partnerships for Serving LGBTQ+ Low Income Clients
Thursday May 14, 2026 2:45pm - 4:00pm EDT
Symphony 3
This session will provide information on how building and sustaining partnerships between legal aid organizations and local, state, and national community organizations can help improve legal services for low-income LGBTQ+ clients. Attendees will learn about successful ongoing and past partnerships as well as learn some principles and tips for building new partnerships and deepening existing partnerships with community organizations.
Speakers
SM
LO
KM
Thursday May 14, 2026 2:45pm - 4:00pm EDT
Symphony 3
  Sessions

2:45pm EDT

Building Trust and Connecting with Vulnerable Clients
Thursday May 14, 2026 2:45pm - 4:00pm EDT
Mecklenburg 3
This session will address the importance of connecting and learning how to communicate effectively with people in marginalized communities. Skills for identifying barriers to communication and connection and ways to overcome them will be discussed.
Speakers
JR

Jaelle R. Richardson

Assistant Clinical Professor of Law and Social Work, Wayne State University Law School and School of Social Work
Jaelle Richardson, Esq., LMSW, is an Assistant Clinical Professor at Wayne State University Law School and the School of Social Work. She is also the Director of Pro Bono and Public Interest Initiatives at Wayne Law. She is an attorney and a licensed clinical social worker. She is... Read More →
DM
Thursday May 14, 2026 2:45pm - 4:00pm EDT
Mecklenburg 3
  Sessions

2:45pm EDT

Built to Deliver, Designed to Learn: Linking Project Management with Evaluation
Thursday May 14, 2026 2:45pm - 4:00pm EDT
Governers 5&6
What if every legal aid project was designed not only to succeed, but also to teach us something? This session explores how project managers can incorporate evaluation to improve delivery, adapt to real-time challenges, and document meaningful results. Presenters will share how they built evaluation into timelines, workflows, and reporting without requiring a statistics degree. Attendees will learn to move beyond compliance reporting toward evaluation that fuels learning and continuous improvement.
Speakers
avatar for Shellie Reid

Shellie Reid

Manager, Legal Services National Technology Assistance Project
Shellie Reid is the Manager of the Legal Services National Technology Assistance Project (LSNTAP). During law school, Shellie sought opportunities to gain experience beyond the normal law school path. As an ATJ Tech Fellow, Shellie learned of the many career options available to students... Read More →
avatar for Kelly Shaw-Sutherland

Kelly Shaw-Sutherland

Deputy Director of Consulting and Project Management, Just-Tech, LLC
Kelly Shaw-Sutherland is a skilled project manager, social science researcher, and evaluation leader with two decades of experience guiding complex, multi-stakeholder initiatives across the legal, public health, and nonprofit sectors. She excels at integrating project management with... Read More →
KW

Katherine Wines

Research Associate, Legal Services Corporation
Thursday May 14, 2026 2:45pm - 4:00pm EDT
Governers 5&6
  Sessions

2:45pm EDT

Catalysts for Change: The Strategic Role of Leaders in Program Innovation & Mission Advancement
Thursday May 14, 2026 2:45pm - 4:00pm EDT
Carolina C
The session guides leaders to move their programs beyond tactical decisions and move forward strategic and visionary change. This session begins with an overview of prevalent theories of change at legal aid organizations, followed by an interactive discussion of a case study in which staff leadership, board, and funders of an organization are not fully aligned on program priorities. Through the case study, participants will identify how they can become more effective catalysts for change.
Speakers
PH

Phil Hwang

CEO, OneJustice
Phil Hwang is the CEO of OneJustice, a nonprofit organization that strengthens the expertise and capacity of nonprofit legal organizations and volunteers to advance justice and equity. OneJustice's areas of expertise include legal aid strategy and impact; leadership and management... Read More →
PF

Patrick Fodell

Director, OneJustice
As a OneJustice Director, Patrick dedicates his time to the Pro Bono Training Institute, finance, and consulting opportunities related to succession planning and adult learning best practices. He has coordinated trainings and outreach efforts at the Watsonville Law Center, Legal Aid... Read More →
ME

Monica Eav Glicken

CEO/ Executive Director and General Counsel, Public Law Center
Monica Eav Glicken
CEO/ Executive Director and General Counsel of Public Law Center (PLC)

Monica served as the Directing Attorney of PLC’s Immigration Unit from 2018 to 2022 and is a State Bar-certified Immigration Law expert. After graduating magna cum laude in Literature from Harvard University, Monica served as a Fulbright Fellow in the Philippines and a Corps Member... Read More →
RW

Robert White

Program Director, OneJustice
Robert White is a Program Director at OneJustice currently supporting programs on nonprofit legal services leadership, board leadership and immigration legal services. Prior to joining OneJustice he founded a practice as a consultant and executive coach with a particular focus on... Read More →
Thursday May 14, 2026 2:45pm - 4:00pm EDT
Carolina C
  Sessions

2:45pm EDT

Community Legal Needs Assessments Post-pandemic: Trends & Emerging Needs
Thursday May 14, 2026 2:45pm - 4:00pm EDT
Mecklenburg 1
The pandemic has passed but our housing crisis persists. The senior population is growing. The future of public benefits is unsure. Let’s learn about changing needs in legal aid client communities. We’ll review results from five post-pandemic legal needs assessments conducted in rural and urban areas. Then we’ll lead discussion of how to use quantitative and qualitative data to uncover local needs, refine your service priorities, and begin strategic planning for challenges and opportunities ahead.
Speakers
JH

Jeffrey Harvey

CEO, Community Legal Services
Jeff was appointed to the Chief Executive Officer position in April 2020 but is no stranger to leadership or public service.

He graduated from Boston College in 2001 with his BA in Political Science and Theology. After college, Jeff was commissioned as an officer in the US Army where he completed training as a Ranger. While in the Army, Jeff completed his Master’s in Human Development and Leadership... Read More →
SG

Steve Grumm

Consultant, thredpartners
Steve Grumm is a consultant with thredpartners. He is a career-long advocate for improving civil access-to-justice systems and advancing public service in the legal profession. At thredpartners, Steve provides program assessments, strategic planning, and other services to help his... Read More →
avatar for Jen Lee

Jen Lee

Executive Director, Legal Services of North Dakota
Jen Lee has been the Executive Director of Legal Services of North Dakota (LSND) since October 2022, bringing with her over a decade of experience in law, business management, and innovative legal service delivery. Under her leadership, LSND has secured a 100% increase in funding... Read More →
Thursday May 14, 2026 2:45pm - 4:00pm EDT
Mecklenburg 1
  Sessions

2:45pm EDT

Enforcing Human Trafficking Survivors’ Rights Through Civil Suits
Thursday May 14, 2026 2:45pm - 4:00pm EDT
Symphony 6
This panel presentation will explore an underutilized tool for human trafficking survivors – civil litigation to obtain monetary compensation. Using case examples, the presenters will introduce the federal and state private rights of action for human trafficking victims, how to bring these claims, who they can be brought against, remedies available, related causes of action, and the interrelationship between civil suits and immigration relief. A lived experience expert will share his experiences as a plaintiff and recommend best practices for lawyers representing survivors in civil cases.
Speakers
AS

Annie Smith

Wylie H. Davis Professor of Law, University of Arkansas School of Law
Annie Smith is the Wylie H. Davis Professor of Law at the University of Arkansas School of Law where she teaches the Civil Litigation and Advocacy Clinic and Human Trafficking Clinic. Prior to Arkansas, she taught in George Washington University Law School's clinical program. She... Read More →
JA

Jose Alfaro

Peer support specialist and lived expert, The Human Trafficking Legal Center
Jose is a Lived Experience Expert who currently works as an anti trafficking advocate, Peer Support Specialist and consultant. His work centers on the domestic sex trafficking of minors, members of the LGBTQIA community and males. He has worked with anti-trafficking organizations... Read More →
AH

Aaron Halegua

Attorney, Harvard Law School
Thursday May 14, 2026 2:45pm - 4:00pm EDT
Symphony 6
  Sessions

2:45pm EDT

Going on Offense: Using Affirmative Litigation to Achieve Better Outcomes in Eviction Cases
Thursday May 14, 2026 2:45pm - 4:00pm EDT
Symphony 2
For most legal aid attorneys, eviction prevention primarily involves defending eviction actions. Putting up a strong defense is essential, but eviction prevention does not have to end there. In many cases, local and statewide ordinances, as well as contract law principles, can be leveraged to assert claims against a landlord. In this session, we will cover how to issue spot potential claims, how to build an affirmative case, and other relevant considerations when going from defense to offense.
Speakers
LE

Lydia Ellsworth

Supervising Attorney, Community Legal Services of Philadelphia
Lydia Ellsworth is a Supervising Attorney in the Housing Unit at Community Legal Services of Philadelphia. She earned her JD from the Villanova Charles Widger School of Law. Before working for Community Services, Lydia was an Appellate Attorney for the Supreme Court of New York, Appellate... Read More →
BB

Beverly Beaver

Supervising Attorney, Community Legal Services of Philadelphia
Beverly Beaver is a supervising attorney at Community Legal Services of Philadelphia in the housing unit where she primarily focuses on eviction defense. Prior to joining CLS in August of 2024, she was an attorney at the Defender Association of Philadelphia for 13 years. As an assistant... Read More →
Thursday May 14, 2026 2:45pm - 4:00pm EDT
Symphony 2
  Sessions

2:45pm EDT

Justice Starts in Law School: Expanding Pro Bono Through Academic Partnerships
Thursday May 14, 2026 2:45pm - 4:00pm EDT
Carolina D&E
Law students represent untapped potential in the nation’s pro bono ecosystem. This session brings together law schools and legal organizations to explore how partnerships can expand capacity, meet real community needs, and prepare future lawyers for service. Panelists will showcase innovative short- and long-term models, demystify how academic structures and pro bono requirements work, and spark a dialogue about challenges, collaboration, and what today’s students value as the next generation of justice-minded professionals.
Speakers
avatar for Jeanne Ortiz-Ortiz

Jeanne Ortiz-Ortiz

Director, DiMartino/Smith Public Interest Center, St. John's University School of Law
Jeanne Ortiz-Ortiz is the Director of the DiMartino/Smith Public Interest Center at St. John’s University School of Law in New York City, where she leads the strategic vision, fundraising, and daily operations of one of the law school’s biggest academic centers. She oversees a... Read More →
AH

Amy Hsieh

Executive Director, Public Service Law Center, Brooklyn Law School
GD
AJ

Aaron J. Irving

General Magistrate, Fourth Judicial Circuit Court, Clay County, Florida
Justice Starts in Law School Expanding Pro Bono Through Academic Partnerships (3) pdf
Summary Short and Long Term Partnership Models (2) (2) pdf
St. John’s Law Students Advocate for U.S. Military Veterans Over Spring Break pdf
Thursday May 14, 2026 2:45pm - 4:00pm EDT
Carolina D&E
  Sessions

2:45pm EDT

Justice Unbundled: A Path to Legal Access Through Scalable Limited-Scope Models that Empower Clients & Increase Lawyer Engagement
Thursday May 14, 2026 2:45pm - 4:00pm EDT
Symphony 5
This session explores how two legal providers from different regions design limited scope programs that meet diverse community needs. Featuring firsthand insights from pro bono coordinators and a participating volunteer attorney, attendees will learn how unbundling legal services empowers clients, engages attorneys, and expands access to justice. Discussions on ethics, program design, technology, and client empowerment will provide practical strategies and pathways to build sustainable, high-impact limited scope models that strengthen pro bono service delivery.
Speakers
AN
avatar for Joy Springfield

Joy Springfield

Statewide Pro Bono Director, Kansas Legal Services
Joy Springfield is a licensd attorney and the Statewide Director of Pro Bono Services for Kansas Legal Services . Ms. Springfield is licensed to practice law in Kansas and Missouri.

Before joining Kansas Legal Services, Joy Springfield worked at Shook, Hardy & Bacon representing major consumer, tobacco, medical device, and pharmaceutical companies in mass and class actions. Her practice involved handling complex product liability, business, and pharmaceutical... Read More →
avatar for Sharmaine Heng

Sharmaine Heng

Director of Pro Bono & Social Impact, Nixon Peabody LLP
Sharmaine Heng is currently the Pro Bono and Social Impact Director at Nixon Peabody LLP based in the firm's Washington DC office.

Sharmaine is a respected leader in the legal community, known for her collaborative approach and deep commitment to advancing access to justice. She currently serves as Nixon Peabody’s inaugural Pro Bono and Social Impact Director, overseeing the firm’s pro bono work, charitable... Read More →
KB

Kiersten Bartolotta

Pro Bono Coordinator/ Staff Attorney, Legal Services of Long Island
Kiersten Bartolotta is a passionate attorney and program creator dedicated to expanding meaningful legal support for individuals and families on Long Island. She currently serves as the Suffolk County Pro Bono Coordinator at Legal Services of Long Island, where she designs and leads... Read More →
Thursday May 14, 2026 2:45pm - 4:00pm EDT
Symphony 5
  Sessions

2:45pm EDT

Making your Evaluation Meaningful from Design to Impact
Thursday May 14, 2026 2:45pm - 4:00pm EDT
Mecklenburg 2
In this energetic and interactive session, participants will use civil justice project examples to collaboratively design an effective and meaningful evaluation plan. By the end, participants will be able to formulate evaluation questions and design a basic evaluation matrix. Participants will leave with practical tools to guide their next evaluation project. They will also understand the internal and relational benefits (and joys!) of evaluation for their organizations and their communities, beyond just meeting funder requirements.
Speakers
JS

Julia Schutt

Manager of Research & Evaluation, A2J Tech
Julia Schutt leads the Research & Evaluation practice area at A2J Tech. In this role, Julia designs, conducts, and consults on assessments to help organizations improve their access to justice outcomes. Julia is an anthropologist with a multidisciplinary background in social science... Read More →
Thursday May 14, 2026 2:45pm - 4:00pm EDT
Mecklenburg 2
  Sessions

2:45pm EDT

Strengthening Neighborhoods with Pro Bono Support
Thursday May 14, 2026 2:45pm - 4:00pm EDT
Symphony 1
Learn how a legal aid program highlights--and delivers on--co-counsel support when attracting volunteer attorneys to the world of urban neighborhood lawyering.
Speakers
KH

Kayla Hogan

Director, Adopt-A-Neighborhood Project, Legal Aid of Western Missouri
Kayla Hogan is the Director of the Adopt-A-Neighborhood Project at Legal Aid of Western Missouri, a pro bono collaboration between urban core neighborhoods and some of Kansas City's largest private law firms. She earned her B.A. in American Studies at Tufts University before joining... Read More →
AB

Anna Berman

Anna is a trial lawyer who represents clients in a wide variety of cases, including breaches of ?duciary duties, contract disputes, theft of trade secrets, commercial and consumer auto ?nance and creditors’ rights issues. She counsels clients during the litigation process, including... Read More →
Thursday May 14, 2026 2:45pm - 4:00pm EDT
Symphony 1
  Sessions

2:45pm EDT

The Case for Clarity: Law Firm Giving and Government Advocacy in Turbulent Times
Thursday May 14, 2026 2:45pm - 4:00pm EDT
Governers 1&2
For years, law firms have publicly reported and touted their pro bono hours, but law firm giving – and advocacy for public funding – has largely remained in the shadows. This panel will explore a law firm’s responsibility for direct donations, both to organizations that provide pro bono opportunities and to areas of unmet need often beyond the reach of pro bono. We will also explore the broader duty of the private bar to advocate for and defend public funding to support legal aid. Panelists will discuss the opaque and antiquated process of private sector giving during these turbulent times, and how we can work together to put giving in focus.
Speakers
SH

Steve H. Schulman

Pro Bono Partner, Akin
Steven Schulman joined Akin as its first full-time Pro Bono Parnter in 2006, responsible for the global pro bono practice as well as chariable giving directed to legal aid organizations with which the firm works. Steven has also worked closely with the Legal Services Corporation to... Read More →
avatar for Paul Lee

Paul Lee

Pro Bono Partner, Steptoe LLP
Paul Lee coordinates Steptoe's pro bono program and mentors on a variety of pro bono matters, particularly those involving immigration and juvenile law. He has responsibility for all aspects of the firm's pro bono efforts and serves as the firm's point person in working with legal... Read More →
AH
avatar for Mytrang Nguyen

Mytrang Nguyen

Program Counsel, Pro Bono Innovation Fund, Legal Services Corporation
Mytrang Nguyen, she/her, is Senior Program Counsel for Pro Bono Innovation at the Legal Services Corporation (LSC) in Washington, D.C., where she is part of a team that manages LSC’s Pro Bono Innovation Fund. This nearly $5 million annual competitive grant program invests in efforts... Read More →
Thursday May 14, 2026 2:45pm - 4:00pm EDT
Governers 1&2
  Sessions

4:15pm EDT

(ETHICS) Navigating Cybersecurity Risks in Legal Aid: Protecting Clients, Data, and Trust
Thursday May 14, 2026 4:15pm - 5:30pm EDT
Carolina C
Cybersecurity threats are rising across the legal aid sector. This session equips organizations with practical strategies to protect sensitive client data, comply with regulations, and respond effectively to incidents. Presenters will share tools, frameworks, and real-world lessons to strengthen resilience and safeguard client trust against evolving cyber risks.
Speakers
avatar for Shellie Reid

Shellie Reid

Manager, Legal Services National Technology Assistance Project
Shellie Reid is the Manager of the Legal Services National Technology Assistance Project (LSNTAP). During law school, Shellie sought opportunities to gain experience beyond the normal law school path. As an ATJ Tech Fellow, Shellie learned of the many career options available to students... Read More →
ES

Ellen Samuel

Chief Operating Officer, Just-Tech
Ellen Samuel is the Chief Operating Officer and Director of Consulting at Just-Tech. With a specialization in developing innovative solutions for the legal sector, Ellen's expertise spans cybersecurity assessments, AI implementation, knowledge management systems, and much more. Her... Read More →
JM
avatar for David Forrester

David Forrester

IT Director, Northwest Justice Project
David Forrester leads Northwest Justice Project's dedicated technology team as IT Director. For the past 20 years, David’s work has focused on helping nonprofits develop strategies and deliver technology solutions that help broaden and deepen their positive impact. Before joining... Read More →
Thursday May 14, 2026 4:15pm - 5:30pm EDT
Carolina C
  Sessions

4:15pm EDT

(NOT CLE ELIGIBLE) Redefining Success in Challenging Times: Preserving Rights, Reimagining Justice
Thursday May 14, 2026 4:15pm - 5:30pm EDT
Symphony 2
What does it mean to “win” when the rule of law is under attack? As democracy faces unprecedented threats, success in pro bono work must be reimagined. This session brings together nonprofit advocates and law firm leaders who are reshaping justice work in uncertain times. Panelists will share creative strategies, reflections on resilience, and evolving measures of impact, offering practical insights to sustain pro bono advocacy and safeguard democracy.
Speakers
TS
RK

Rene Kathawala

Pro Bono Counsel, Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe LLP
Rene Kathawala serves as Orrick's firmwide pro bono counsel, responsible for managing and initiating the firm's pro bono activities, including all administrative and legal aspects.

Rene works with other pro bono counsel and legal services nonprofits to increase the quantity and quality of pro bono representation that is being provided to indigent clients in each of the cities worldwide where Orrick has a presence. In addition, he supervises and directly works... Read More →
avatar for Chriselle Raguro

Chriselle Raguro

Director of Pro Bono and Strategic Partnerships, Lawyers' Committee for Civil Rights of the San Francisco Bay Area
Chriselle Raguro (she/her/siya) serves as the Director of Pro Bono and Strategic Partnerships at the Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights of the San Francisco Bay Area (LCCRSF). In this role, she drives the organization’s vision to grow and strengthen its pro bono program, mobilizing... Read More →
KN

Katie Niejadlik

Katie Niejadlik is the Global Director for Pro Bono at the Center for Reproductive Rights, where she leads a global team of pro bono professionals and drives the organization’s strategy to expand and deepen partnerships with the private bar in support of reproductive rights as human... Read More →
BS

Bianca Sierra Wolff

Executive Director, Lawyers' Committee for Civil Rights of the San Francisco Bay Area
Bianca Sierra Wolff is Executive Director of the Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights of the San Francisco Bay Area (LCCRSF) and brings more than two decades of executive and legal leadership to the organization. Prior to joining LCCRSF, she served as Executive Director of the California... Read More →
Thursday May 14, 2026 4:15pm - 5:30pm EDT
Symphony 2
  Sessions

4:15pm EDT

America's Black Maternal Health Crisis and Disappearing Data
Thursday May 14, 2026 4:15pm - 5:30pm EDT
Mecklenburg 2
In the United States women of all races and ages are dying at the highest rate in the developed world and the crisis is most severe for Black women and birthing people who are 3-4 times more likely to die from pregnancy related causes than their white counterparts across all income and education levels. The racial disparities in our US maternal mortality rates are clearly captured in international, national, and state data. Yet, new federal actions threaten our ability to capture and report this data and ultimately provide justice amidst this healthcare crisis. This presentation will define the maternal health crisis through data, provide updates on new attitudes towards collecting data showing racial disparities, and provide participants with advocacy strategies to support pregnant populations and ensure access to this crucial data.
Speakers
BM

Bernadette Manigault

Director of Litigation, Neighborhood Legal Services of Los Angeles County
Bernadette Manigault is a Director of Litigation at Neighborhood Legal Services of Los Angeles County (NLSLA), where she leads and supports impact litigation across the organization. With over ten years of litigation experience, Bernadette has secured more than $50 million in verdicts... Read More →
Thursday May 14, 2026 4:15pm - 5:30pm EDT
Mecklenburg 2
  Sessions

4:15pm EDT

Building Tenant Power to Preserve Subsidized Housing
Thursday May 14, 2026 4:15pm - 5:30pm EDT
Symphony 3
As the federal government has slashed investment in subsidized housing, preserving existing housing and their subsidies is more important than ever. Using a case study of representing public housing residents in Savannah, Georgia, who are facing the demolition of their homes, the session will teach advocates how to identify housing subsidies at risk and leverage tenant power to advocate for preserving subsidized housing in their community. The session will also discuss potential legislation and regulations which impact preservation work.
Speakers
KC

Korey C. Lundin

Senior Staff Attorney, National Housing Law Project
Korey Lundin is a Senior Staff Attorney at the National Housing Law Project and focuses his work on the preservation of federally assisted housing. Prior to joining NHLP, Korey worked for over two decades as a housing and family law attorney with Legal Action of Wisconsin, Inc. in... Read More →
BA

Bridgett A. Simmons

Staff Attorney, National Housing Law Project
BRIDGETT A. SIMMONS is a Staff Attorney with the National Housing Law Project (NHLP). Bridgett’s work focuses on the preservation of HUD-subsidized multifamily housing, healthy housing and tenants’ right to organize. Bridgett joined NHLP in September 2017 as the second David B... Read More →
DS

David Sunshine Hamburger

Staff Attorney, Georgia Legal Services Program
David Sunshine Hamburger is a Staff Attorney at Georgia Legal Services Program's Savannah office where he works as the single non-profit housing lawyer for an eleven-county region of Southeast Georgia. David's practice focuses on representing low-resourced tenants in eviction hearings... Read More →
Thursday May 14, 2026 4:15pm - 5:30pm EDT
Symphony 3
  Sessions

4:15pm EDT

Designing Tech-Driven Case Studies and Role Plays for Pro Bono Volunteers
Thursday May 14, 2026 4:15pm - 5:30pm EDT
Carolina D&E
This session is built for legal aid attorneys who want to take their pro bono volunteer training programs to the next level by integrating interactive case studies and role-playing exercises—both online and in-person. With a focus on using technology to boost engagement and simulate real-world scenarios, this session empowers trainers to design immersive, learner-centered experiences that easily and quickly train pro bono volunteers. We will develop at least one resource together in this session for a hands-on training experience.
Speakers
PF

Patrick Fodell

Director, OneJustice
As a OneJustice Director, Patrick dedicates his time to the Pro Bono Training Institute, finance, and consulting opportunities related to succession planning and adult learning best practices. He has coordinated trainings and outreach efforts at the Watsonville Law Center, Legal Aid... Read More →
PW

Phong Wong

Pro Bono Director, Legal Aid Foundation of Los Angeles
Phong Wong, Pro Bono Director at the Legal Aid Foundation of Los Angeles.

Phong oversees the Legal Aid Foundation of Los Angeles’ pro bono work and coordinates its pro bono cases and projects, including Disaster Response and the Pro Bono Training Institute. She also oversees the outreach, recruitment, and hiring of volunteers including law students, underg... Read More →
JH

Judy Hale

Director of Pro Bono Services with the, Pennsylvania Bar Association
Judy Hale is the Director of Pro Bono Services with the Pennsylvania Bar Association (PBA), where she supports pro bono projects in Pennsylvania through PBA committees, county bar associations, legal aid agencies, law schools, as well as administering PA Wills for Heroes and PA Free... Read More →
Thursday May 14, 2026 4:15pm - 5:30pm EDT
Carolina D&E
  Sessions

4:15pm EDT

Educating Legislators About Legal Aid 2.0
Thursday May 14, 2026 4:15pm - 5:30pm EDT
Carolina A
This session is designed to build on the workshops we have done for the past few years on how to explain legal aid as constituent services to legislators and their staff. Now that many LSC grantees and other legal aid programs have begun to develop relationships with their federal and state legislators and staff, we want to identify ways to build on and expand those connections, e.g., provide trainings for district caseworkers; involve legislative staff in community outreach efforts. The panel will include LSC grantee Executive Directors and civil legal aid practitioners with experience meeting with and educating federal and state legislators and their staff. The panel will also address compliance with LSC lobbying restrictions applicable to LSC grantees in communicating with legislators.
Speakers
RS

Ronald S. Flagg

President, Legal Services Corporation
Ron Flagg was appointed President of the Legal Services Corporation effective February 20, 2020 and has served as Vice President for Legal Affairs and General Counsel since 2013. He previously practiced commercial and administrative litigation at Sidley Austin LLP for 31 years, 27... Read More →
avatar for Laura Tuggle

Laura Tuggle

Executive Director, Southeast Louisiana Legal Services
Laura Tuggle has been the Executive Director of Southeast Louisiana Legal Services (SLLS) since May 2014 after beginning her career in 1993. She managed SLLS’ Housing Law Unit following Hurricane Katrina from 2005-2010. Laura's work includes direct services, systemic work and policy... Read More →
BB
AC

Ashley Campbell

CEO, Legal Aid of North Carolina
Ashley Campbell is the CEO of Legal Aid of North Carolina, where she leads a statewide organization advancing access to justice for more than two million income-eligible North Carolinians each year. She began her legal career at Legal Aid in 2003 as a staff attorney, representing... Read More →
Thursday May 14, 2026 4:15pm - 5:30pm EDT
Carolina A
  Sessions

4:15pm EDT

If You Build It, They Will [Advocate]: How to Develop Your Own Guardianship Defense Practice
Thursday May 14, 2026 4:15pm - 5:30pm EDT
Governers 5&6
This interactive session will use best practices to help participants conceptualize a guardianship defense practice in their own organizations, from scratch. First, the session will give a high-level overview of guardianship defense law, including from the Older Americans Act regulations. Then, participants will be guided through a brainstorming session to identify key resources and collaborators in their communities to help make an organized guardianship defense program a reality.
Speakers
KN

Karen Nicolson

Executive Director, Center for Elder Law and Justice
SE

Sara E. Planthaber

Aging Services Program Specialist, Administration for Community Living
Sara Planthaber, JD, MSW, is an Aging Services Program Specialist with the Office of Elder Justice and Adult Protective Services in the Administration for Community Living, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. At ACL, Sara works on elder rights and elder justice programs... Read More →
Thursday May 14, 2026 4:15pm - 5:30pm EDT
Governers 5&6
  Sessions

4:15pm EDT

Media 101: Press Relations with a Small Team (or Without Comms Staff)
Thursday May 14, 2026 4:15pm - 5:30pm EDT
Symphony 5
Many legal aid organizations don’t have dedicated communications staff — or they rely on split-duty staff juggling multiple roles. This workshop will introduce executive directors and grantee communications staff to the basics of media engagement and why it matters. Participants will learn how to build relationships with local reporters, establish a regular cadence for simple press outreach, and craft messaging that reinforces the essential role of civil legal aid. Presenters will share practical tips, templates, and examples that participants can take home and apply immediately to their own organizations.
Speakers
MD

Maria Duvuvuei

Communications Strategist, Legal Services Corporation
Maria Duvuvuei is Communications Strategist at the Legal Services Corporation (LSC), where she leads strategic communications efforts in support of civil legal aid nationwide. Detailed to the Office of Government Relations and Public Affairs, she manages LSC’s communications framework... Read More →
Thursday May 14, 2026 4:15pm - 5:30pm EDT
Symphony 5
  Sessions

4:15pm EDT

Power to the People: A Holistic Revolution to End Mass Incarceration Through Participatory Defense
Thursday May 14, 2026 4:15pm - 5:30pm EDT
Governers 1&2
Participatory Defense is a community organizing model that empowers people facing charges and their families to shift power in the courtroom. It centers family and community strength, positions impacted people as organizers and agents of change, and uses individual cases to build a movement to hold courts accountable and end mass incarceration. This workshop explores partnerships between communities and public defender offices to challenge harmful policies, strengthen defense efforts, and leverage community power to bring loved ones home and drive systemic change.
Speakers
MW

Mitchelle Woodson

Legal Director, Pillars of the Community
Mitchelle is Legal Director at Pillars of the Community, overseeing Police Accountability and Law Office Study programs. She is a founding member of FREE-SD and the DeDe McClure Community Bail Fund, a national speaker on justice issues, and an award-winning advocate. She earned her... Read More →
Thursday May 14, 2026 4:15pm - 5:30pm EDT
Governers 1&2
  Sessions

4:15pm EDT

Reimagining the Justice Experience: Designing Justice Systems Through User Feedback and Lessons from Other Sectors
Thursday May 14, 2026 4:15pm - 5:30pm EDT
Symphony 1
Learn from leaders in healthcare, business, and tech about how their industries transformed service delivery by centering the user. Participants will consider what it would mean to design the civil justice system with a parallel focus: creating a Justice Experience centered on the needs of low-income people navigating civil legal issues.
Speakers
SD

Samantha DiDomenico

Director, Stout
Samantha DiDomenico is a Director in Stout’s Transformative Change Consulting group. Samantha has 10 years of experience providing consulting services to for-profit and non-profit clients in a variety of industries. She has expertise in understanding large, complex systems and data... Read More →
Thursday May 14, 2026 4:15pm - 5:30pm EDT
Symphony 1
  Sessions

4:15pm EDT

State Court Leadership Views on Authorized Justice Workers
Thursday May 14, 2026 4:15pm - 5:30pm EDT
Mecklenburg 1
This session will share preliminary findings from a multi-state study of state court leadership perceptions on authorized justice workers. Encouraged by resolutions passed by both the ABA House of Delegates and the Conference of Chief Justices (CCJ)/Conference of State Court Administrators (COSCA) to study and explore community justice worker models in each state, this research project engages both the judiciary and court administrators in jurisdictions that have both already adopted justice worker reforms and states that have not.
Speakers
RS

Rebecca Sandefur

Professor, Sanford School of Social and Family Dynamics, Arizona State University
Dr. Rebecca Sandefur is the Director of the Sanford School of Social and Family Dynamics at Arizona State University and a Faculty Fellow at the American Bar Foundation, where she founded and leads the Access to Justice Research Initiative. In 2018 she was named a MacArthur Fellow... Read More →
EC

Elizabeth Chambliss

Henry Harman Edens Professor of Law and Director, NMRS Center on Professionalism, University of South Carolina Rice School of Law
Elizabeth Chambliss is the Henry Harman Edens Professor of Law and Director of the NMRS Center on Professionalism at the University of South Carolina Rice School of Law. She received her JD and PhD in sociology from the University of Wisconsin. Her scholarship focuses on civil access... Read More →
CC

Cassie Chambers Matthew Burnett

Professor of Law, University of Louisville School of Law
Professor Cassie Chambers Armstrong’s research explores access to justice, rural courts, domestic violence and housing law. She uses empirical methods to study how courts function across geographic regions and areas of law. Professor Armstrong graduated from Harvard Law School... Read More →
AM

Alyx Mark

Professor, Wesleyan University
Thursday May 14, 2026 4:15pm - 5:30pm EDT
Mecklenburg 1
  Sessions

4:15pm EDT

Understanding & Addressing Burnout
Thursday May 14, 2026 4:15pm - 5:30pm EDT
Mecklenburg 3
Legal aid and pro bono professionals face unique pressures that put them at high risk of burnout.This session explores what burnout is, the biology of the stress cycle, and how to spot early signs. Participants will learn practical ways to prevent and address burnout, including tools to close the stress cycle and create a personal red flags and response plan for greater well-being.
Speakers
JR

Julia R. Wilson

Coach & Consultant, Julia Wilson Coaching
Julia R. Wilson is a leadership and team coach working with individuals and teams in civil legal services nonprofits across the country. She brings 3 decades of experience in legal services, including roles as a frontline attorney, executive director, and board member. She is certified... Read More →
Thursday May 14, 2026 4:15pm - 5:30pm EDT
Mecklenburg 3
  Sessions
 
Friday, May 15
 

8:30am EDT

Booked Up, Logged In, and On the Road Again-- Close the Justice Gap with a Public Library Partnership
Friday May 15, 2026 8:30am - 9:45am EDT
Symphony 1
Strategic partnerships with public libraries can address inequities in the justice system for self-represented individuals. Pro bono led clinics, combined with library services and resources, put self-helpers on equal footing with opponents as they advocate for themselves. This session features innovative partnerships with public libraries that bridge the justice gap. We’ll share ideas for clinics and programs; an initiative that brings virtual public access to court services and resources; and a mobile legal office to ensure no one gets left behind.
Speakers
KH

Katherine Hope Chew

Executive Director, LA Law Library
Katherine serves as the Executive Director of LA Law Library. LA Law Library is the largest public law library on the west coast, and second only to the Law Library of Congress in size in the United States. With a vast collection of state, federal, and foreign legal resources spanning... Read More →
JM

Julie M. Brophy

Associate, Dechert LLP
KS

Karie Schulenburg

Research Librarian, Boston Public Library
Karie chose librarianship as her career because of the library's intrinsic and unique ability to effectively pivot and evolve according to the needs of the public it serves. Librarians are a vital conduit for positive social change by providing trustworthy information and services... Read More →
Friday May 15, 2026 8:30am - 9:45am EDT
Symphony 1
  Sessions

8:30am EDT

Creative Strategies to Train and Support Pro Bono Lawyers
Friday May 15, 2026 8:30am - 9:45am EDT
Governers 5&6
Great pro bono programs don’t just recruit volunteers -- they build systems that set them up for success. This panel explores practical strategies for onboarding, training, and retaining volunteers, with real-world models from Pro Bono Network and Community Legal Services of Mid-Florida. Ideal for legal aid staff, pro bono coordinators, and law firm professionals who design or support attorney engagement and training efforts.
Speakers
CJ

Courtney Jones

Courtney S. Jones is the Managing Attorney of Pro Bono Development at Community Legal Services (CLS), where she leads strategic initiatives to recruit, train, and support volunteer attorneys and law students in delivering high-quality legal services to underserved communities. In... Read More →
MM

Molly MacCready

Executive Director, Pro Bono Network
Molly MacCready is the Executive Director of Pro Bono Network, a nonprofit that creates flexible pro bono opportunities, removing barriers to attorney volunteerism, to serve people in need. She oversees staff leadership and leads the organization’s strategic vision, working closely... Read More →
SW

Sheila Winkelman Pont

Pro Bono Director, Pro Bono Network
Sheila Winkelman Pont is a founder and the current Pro Bono Director of Pro Bono Network. In this role, she collaborates with nine legal aid organizations to expand access to justice by creating pro bono opportunities that address critical community legal needs while providing attorneys... Read More →
AD

Andrea D. Ortiz

Director of Pro Bono Services, Community Legal Services of Mid-Florida

Friday May 15, 2026 8:30am - 9:45am EDT
Governers 5&6
  Sessions

8:30am EDT

Defending Civil Society: Innovative Pro Bono Models for Protecting Nonprofits Under Pressure
Friday May 15, 2026 8:30am - 9:45am EDT
Carolina D&E
Nonprofit organizations are currently navigating a perfect storm of federal funding freezes, tax-exempt status challenges, and congressional oversight. This session provides a practical framework for mobilizing pro bono resources to protect these vital institutions. We will explore the intersection of administrative law, grant compliance, and governance to build tiered support systems—ranging from immediate technical triage to sophisticated legal counsel. Participants will learn to design comprehensive support ecosystems that integrate legal expertise with policy advocacy and community partnership, while mastering the logistics of training hundreds of volunteers and leveraging technology to maintain rigorous supervision standards at scale.
Speakers
BG

Bob Glaves

Executive Director, The Chicago Bar Foundation
Bob Glaves has been Executive Director of The Chicago Bar Foundation since October of 1999, prior to which he had a successful nine-year career as a civil litigator in private practice. As Executive Director of the CBF, Glaves is responsible for leading and overseeing the CBF’s... Read More →
LW

Lauren Worsek

Director, Pro Bono Initiatives, Lawyers for Good Government
Lauren Worsek is the Director of Pro Bono Initiatives at Lawyers for Good Government (L4GG), where she oversees the strategic direction and operations of L4GG’s national pro bono programs, mobilizing thousands of volunteers to respond to urgent legal issues nationwide. She previously... Read More →
MR

Michelle Roos

Executive Director, Environmental Protection Network
MIchelle Roos is the Executive Director of the Environmental Protection Network (EPN). EPN has a small staff and over 750 EPA alumni across the country volunteering their time to protect the integrity of EPA, human health, and the environment. Michelle helped launch EPN’s capacity-building... Read More →
JB

Jillian Blanchard

Senior Vice President of Climate Change and Environmental Justice, Lawyers for Good Government
Jillian Blanchard is L4GG’s Senior Vice President of Climate Change and Environmental Justice and a nationally recognized attorney in energy and natural resources law. Ms. Blanchard has worked in all levels of government, nonprofit, and the private sector on environmental, infrastructure... Read More →
Friday May 15, 2026 8:30am - 9:45am EDT
Carolina D&E
  Sessions

8:30am EDT

Fail Smart, Win Big: Overcoming Fear to Unlock Innovation Potential
Friday May 15, 2026 8:30am - 9:45am EDT
Carolina A
Innovation requires experimentation, and experimentation means some failures are inevitable. Yet fear of failure often paralyzes organizations and stifles breakthrough thinking. This panel explores how to distinguish between intelligent failures—productive experiments that generate valuable learning—and preventable mistakes. Our panel shares frameworks for building cultures where calculated risk-taking is encouraged, failures are analyzed without blame, and teams develop the courage to push boundaries and drive meaningful innovation.
Speakers
AC

Andy Cole

Pro Bono Managing Attorney, West Tennessee Legal Services
AH

Ashley Holliday

Executive Director, West Tennessee Legal Services, Inc.
Ashley Holliday is Executive Director at West Tennessee Legal Services, Inc. Ashley has worked at WTLS since 2009, previously serving as General Counsel and Manager of the Senior Services, Intake, and Consumer Units. Ashley graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Communications from... Read More →
Friday May 15, 2026 8:30am - 9:45am EDT
Carolina A
  Sessions

8:30am EDT

Financing the Future and Strengthening the Law Student to Public Interest Pipeline
Friday May 15, 2026 8:30am - 9:45am EDT
Mecklenburg 2
Supporting law students to pursue paths to legal services or pro bono partnerships is critical to recruitment and retention in the sector. We will explore how providing financial support from legal services, law schools, the State Bar, and others can encourage students to seek public interest careers while also increasing diversity.
Speakers
PW

Phong Wong

Pro Bono Director, Legal Aid Foundation of Los Angeles
Phong Wong, Pro Bono Director at the Legal Aid Foundation of Los Angeles.

Phong oversees the Legal Aid Foundation of Los Angeles’ pro bono work and coordinates its pro bono cases and projects, including Disaster Response and the Pro Bono Training Institute. She also oversees the outreach, recruitment, and hiring of volunteers including law students, underg... Read More →
EH

Elizabeth Hom

Program Director, State Bar of Calfornia
Elizabeth A. Hom is a Program Director at the State Bar of California, Office of Access & Inclusion, where she advances the State Bar’s efforts for greater access to, and inclusion in, the legal system. Elizabeth supports administration of grants to legal aid organizations throughout... Read More →
Friday May 15, 2026 8:30am - 9:45am EDT
Mecklenburg 2
  Sessions

8:30am EDT

From Casework to Capacity-Building: Supervisors as Change Agents
Friday May 15, 2026 8:30am - 9:45am EDT
Carolina C
Senior supervising attorneys in legal aid organizations often juggle high caseloads while serving as the connective tissue of their programs. Too often, their role is framed narrowly as case oversight, rather than as an opportunity to build organizational capacity and shape culture. This session reframes supervision as a lever for change. Through interactive discussion, real-world case studies, and practical tools, participants will explore how supervisors can develop staff skills, embed equity in everyday practice, and pilot innovative workflows that ripple beyond their teams. Attendees will leave with frameworks for shifting from “approver of work” to “capacity-builder,” strategies for balancing advocacy with leadership, and templates for implementing small-scale changes that drive systemic impact.
Speakers
HB

Holly Beck

Divisional Supervising Attorney, Community Legal Services of Philadelphia
avatar for Kadeem Morris

Kadeem Morris

Co-Managing Attorney, Housing Unit, Community Legal Services of Philadelphia
Kadeem Morris is a Co-Managing Attorney in the Housing Unit at Community Legal Services of Philadelphia, where he co-manages a team of 40 lawyers, paralegals, social workers, and other staff members in litigation and advocacy to prevent evictions and homelessness. He also co-leads... Read More →
JC

Jenna Collins

Director of Supervision & Professional Development, Community Legal Services of Philadelphia
Jenna Collins is the Director of Superivsion and Professional Development at Community Legal Services of Philadelphia. She is also a housing attorney. She oversees and supports CLS’s supervision and training systems to ensure all staff have access to excellent supervision and training... Read More →
Friday May 15, 2026 8:30am - 9:45am EDT
Carolina C
  Sessions

8:30am EDT

From Collaboration to Code: Building a Statewide Civil Justice Infrastructure
Friday May 15, 2026 8:30am - 9:45am EDT
Symphony 3
Discover how Louisiana’s Civil Legal Navigator evolved from vision to statewide infrastructure. This session demonstrates the platform and its integrated screening, intake, and referral tools, then unpacks the collaborative ecosystem—multi-partner capacity-building, coordinated content and resource development, taxonomy alignment and more—that helps Louisiana inform, empower, and connect legal help seekers across the state.
Speakers
avatar for Laura Tuggle

Laura Tuggle

Executive Director, Southeast Louisiana Legal Services
Laura Tuggle has been the Executive Director of Southeast Louisiana Legal Services (SLLS) since May 2014 after beginning her career in 1993. She managed SLLS’ Housing Law Unit following Hurricane Katrina from 2005-2010. Laura's work includes direct services, systemic work and policy... Read More →
AB
RM

Rachel Mills

ATJ Projects Counsel, Louisiana State Bar Association
Rachael Mills, Esq. currently works with the Louisiana State Bar Association’s Access to Justice Program where she serves as ATJ Projects Counsel. In this role she works to manage, administer and direct various projects of the LSBA ATJ Program, which strengthens relationships and... Read More →
SB

Stephanie Beaugh

Access to Justice Projects Counsel, Louisiana State Bar Association
Stephanie Beaugh is the Access to Justice Projects Counsel at the Louisiana State Bar Association (LSBA), where she serves as staff liaison to the Self-Represented Litigation, Technology, and Community Outreach & Education Committees of the Access to Justice Commission. In this role... Read More →
Friday May 15, 2026 8:30am - 9:45am EDT
Symphony 3
  Sessions

8:30am EDT

Innovative Tools for Managing and Growing Outreach and Pro Bono Programs
Friday May 15, 2026 8:30am - 9:45am EDT
Governers 1&2
Building on last year’s popular discussion, “Innovative Strategies for Managing and Growing Your Outreach Program,” this session shares how our outreach and pro bono strategies have evolved. Presenters will demonstrate equity-driven approaches using tools like Monday.com, interactive maps, and inclusive campaigns to streamline planning, engage communities, and coordinate volunteers. Attendees will leave with practical tools and ideas to strengthen and grow their own outreach and pro bono programs.
Speakers
SL

Sandra L. San Emeterio Fair

Director of Community Outreach and Education, Statewide Legal Services of CT
Sandra L. San Emeterio Fair, Esq., is the Director of Community Outreach and Education at Statewide Legal Services of Connecticut, where she leads efforts to expand access to justice for underserved communities. With nearly a decade of experience in community outreach, education... Read More →
AC

Aletheia C. Stratos

Executive IT Assistant, Statewide Legal Services of CT
Friday May 15, 2026 8:30am - 9:45am EDT
Governers 1&2
  Sessions

8:30am EDT

IRS vs. IOU: Leveraging IRS Regs and Counterclaims in Nonprofit Hospital Debt Suits
Friday May 15, 2026 8:30am - 9:45am EDT
Mecklenburg 3
501(c)(3) hospitals must comply with IRS Section 501(r) regarding Financial Assistance Policies and Extraordinary Collection Actions (ECAs). This session is a tactical guide for advocates defending medical debt collection cases by leveraging these federal regulations. Learn to spot violations—like improper billing or illegal ECAs—and use them as powerful counterclaims to secure full debt discharge, enforce charity care, and hold tax-exempt hospitals accountable for aggressive collections.
Speakers
MK

Matthew Keenan

Executive Director, Kansas Legal Services
Matt Keenan received his undergraduate in Liberal Arts from the University of Kansas, graduating with Distinction in 1981. At graduation, he was honored with the Agnes Wright Strickland award, given to two graduates with demonstrated leadership in matters of University concern.
KU law school, 1984, Order of the Coif, Articles Editor, KU Law Review. Law clerk, Hon. James K. Logan, United States Court of Appeals for the Tenth Circuit. Shook, Hardy & Bacon in KCMO where he practiced for 37 years, serving as chair of the firm’s pro bono committee. In August... Read More →
AK

Andy Kent

Staff Attorney, Kansas Legal Services
avatar for Casey Johnson

Casey Johnson

Director of Advocacy and Litigation, Kansas Legal Services
Casey Johnson is the Director of Advocacy and Litigation for Kansas Legal Services (KLS) and is primarily responsible for the firm’s judicial advocacy, litigation strategies, and attorney training. Casey interned in the Topeka office from 2011 to 2013 and, after a brief stint as... Read More →
Friday May 15, 2026 8:30am - 9:45am EDT
Mecklenburg 3
  Sessions

8:30am EDT

Launching Community Justice Workers: a Solution to the Legal Deserts Faced by DV Survivors
Friday May 15, 2026 8:30am - 9:45am EDT
Symphony 5
More states are allowing various forms of practice for CJWs. Alaska’s Rule 43.5 allows CJWs to practice law in certain circumstances, including going to court. We’ll share how CJWs are trained for use of the waiver and the progress CJWs are making to end legal deserts for DV survivors.
Speakers
avatar for Sarah Carver

Sarah Carver

Managing Attorney, Center for Elder Law and Justice
Sarah Carver is Co-Director of Alaska Legal Services Corporation’s Community Justice Worker Resource Center (CJWRC). She started her legal career with ALSC as the sole staff attorney in the rural Nome, Alaska office. Since 2018, she has worked to build up the Community Justice Worker... Read More →
TB

Teryn Bird

Legal Program Director, Interior Alaska Center for Non-Violent Living
Teryn Bird is a trial attorney and Legal Program Director at the Interior Alaska Center for Non-Violent Living in Fairbanks, Alaska. She was born and raised in Salt Lake City, Utah, where she earned her Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Engineering from the University of Utah and... Read More →
LK

Lauren Kellogg

Community Justice Worker, Alaska Legal Services Corporation
JK

Joy K. Anderson

Co-Director, CJWRC, Alaska Legal Services Corp
Joy Anderson is a Co-Director for the Community Justice Worker Resource Center, an initiative of the Alaska Legal Services Corporation (ALSC). Previously, Joy served as the General Counsel of the Association of Village Council Presidents, a large non-profit tribal consortium of 56... Read More →
Friday May 15, 2026 8:30am - 9:45am EDT
Symphony 5
  Sessions

8:30am EDT

San Diego Participatory Defense (FREE SD), Bringing the Racial Justice Act to Life
Friday May 15, 2026 8:30am - 9:45am EDT
Mecklenburg 1
FREE-SD works to turn the promise of California’s Racial Justice Act into practice by building power, transparency, and accountability in the legal system. Through court watching, public records requests, data analysis, community organizing, education, and media advocacy, FREE-SD strengthens RJA cases and advances racial justice. This presentation highlights partnerships with the San Diego Public Defender’s Office, UC San Diego, and Pillars of the Community, showing how collaboration equips families and attorneys to challenge systemic racism and fight to free loved ones.
Speakers
MW

Mitchelle Woodson

Legal Director, Pillars of the Community
Mitchelle is Legal Director at Pillars of the Community, overseeing Police Accountability and Law Office Study programs. She is a founding member of FREE-SD and the DeDe McClure Community Bail Fund, a national speaker on justice issues, and an award-winning advocate. She earned her... Read More →
Friday May 15, 2026 8:30am - 9:45am EDT
Mecklenburg 1
  Sessions

8:30am EDT

The Golden Years Challenge: The Experience of Aging Observed Through a New Lens
Friday May 15, 2026 8:30am - 9:45am EDT
Symphony 6
The Golden Years Challenge is an interactive experience that places participants in the roles of older adults managing the daily realities of aging. Modeled after poverty and re-entry simulations, it explores barriers like fixed incomes, mental/physical problems, healthcare access, transportation, and more. As older persons, participants gain empathy and insight into how economic and social inequities affect aging, while discovering ways to strengthen community support, promote inclusion, and advance justice for older adults.
Speakers
KH

Kay Hightower

Partner, Richburg Career Services
Kay Taylor Hightower, Esq., is a partner at Richburg Career Services, Consulting firm that supports nonprofit organizations through grant writing, prospect research and pipeline building by connecting nonprofit to business, governmental and private funders. For almost nine years... Read More →
SI

Susan Ingles

Senior Staff Attorney and Consumer Protection Unit Head, S.C. Legal Services
Susan Ingles is a senior staff attorney and consumer protection unit head at S.C. Legal Services and a frequent speaker on consumer protection, innovation and other legal topics. After 22 years in private practice, Susan spent the last 22 years at SCLS working with vulnerable populations... Read More →
SN

Sally Nesemeier

Communications Manager, Pacolet Milliken
Dr. Sally Nesemeier is a Communications Manager at Pacolet Milliken, where she helps lead strategic communications across a family of companies. Previously, she directed marketing and communications for South Carolina Legal Services, a statewide nonprofit, serving as the organization’s... Read More →
Friday May 15, 2026 8:30am - 9:45am EDT
Symphony 6
  Sessions

10:00am EDT

Community-Based Legal Innovation: Research on Justice Worker Programs in Indian Country
Friday May 15, 2026 10:00am - 11:15am EDT
Mecklenburg 2
This session examines emerging community justice worker (CJW) programs in Indian Country as an evolution from Alaska Legal Services Corporation’s CJW program. Panelists will share research on program design, integration, and impact, highlighting how CJWs expand legal capacity in Alaska Native and American Indian communities and identifying priorities for future study.

Speakers
CN

Cody Nelson

Executive Director, Anishinabe Legal Services
Cody Nelson is the Executive Director of Anishinabe Legal Services, a 501(c)(3) non-profit civil
legal aid law firm providing free legal assistance to low-income Native Americans residing on or
near the Leech Lake, White Earth, and Red Lake Nations in northern Minnesota. Cody
gra... Read More →
RS

Rebecca Sandefur

Professor, Sanford School of Social and Family Dynamics, Arizona State University
Dr. Rebecca Sandefur is the Director of the Sanford School of Social and Family Dynamics at Arizona State University and a Faculty Fellow at the American Bar Foundation, where she founded and leads the Access to Justice Research Initiative. In 2018 she was named a MacArthur Fellow... Read More →
avatar for Matthew Burnett

Matthew Burnett

Director of Research and Programs for the Access to Justice Research Initiative, American Bar Foundation
Matthew Burnett is Director of Research and Programs for the Access to Justice Research Initiative at the American Bar Foundation (ABF), a visiting scholar with the Justice Futures Project at Arizona State University, and an adjunct professor of law at Georgetown University Law Center... Read More →
avatar for Sarah Carver

Sarah Carver

Managing Attorney, Center for Elder Law and Justice
Sarah Carver is Co-Director of Alaska Legal Services Corporation’s Community Justice Worker Resource Center (CJWRC). She started her legal career with ALSC as the sole staff attorney in the rural Nome, Alaska office. Since 2018, she has worked to build up the Community Justice Worker... Read More →
Friday May 15, 2026 10:00am - 11:15am EDT
Mecklenburg 2
  Sessions

10:00am EDT

Enforcing the Disability Rights of Public Benefits Applicants and Recipients Under Federal Anti-Discrimination Laws
Friday May 15, 2026 10:00am - 11:15am EDT
Governers 5&6
In an interactive lecture format, attendees will learn the basics of the Americans with Disability Act (“ADA”) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (“504”) coupled with effective strategies to fight disability discrimination against applicants and recipients of Public Assistance, SNAP and Medicaid. There will be several interactive hypotheticals to facilitate issue spotting, and participants will learn the nuts and bolts of investigating and developing federal ADA/504 complaints. There will be an update on the rapidly changing legal landscape of the ADA/504.
Speakers
SA

Saima A. Akhtar

Senior Attorney, National Center for Law and Economic Justice
Saima Akhtar is a Senior Attorney with the National Center for Law and Economic Justice. She works on issues that include Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits (food stamps), cash public assistance, subsidized childcare, and concerns of Due Process. Saima has represented... Read More →
HK

Haley Kulakowski

Supervising Staff Attorney, Empire Justice Center
Haley Kulakowski is a Public Benefits Supervising Staff Attorney at Empire Justice Center's Rochester office. Haley practices in public benefits law, focusing on impact litigation through class action lawsuits to improve public benefits programs and ensure equitable access to benefits... Read More →
EW

Elizabeth Woods

Supervising Senior Attorney, Empire Justice Center
Elizabeth Woods is a Supervising Senior Attorney in the Public Benefits unit at the Empire Justice Center in Albany, NY. Elizabeth was previously a Senior Staff Attorney at Disability Rights New York in the Protection and Advocacy for Individuals with Mental Illness Program, focusing... Read More →
Friday May 15, 2026 10:00am - 11:15am EDT
Governers 5&6
  Sessions

10:00am EDT

Fines and Fines Reform: Opportunities and Lessons Learned
Friday May 15, 2026 10:00am - 11:15am EDT
Governers 1&2
Court fines and fees can have a devastating impact on court users with collateral consequences beyond a criminal case, including ramifications for housing and credit. This session will focus on the civil implications of court fines and fees, civil legal strategies to address the impact of court fines and fees, reform initiatives, and tools and resources developed by the recent national CCJ/COSCA Task Force on fines, fees, and pretrial reform. It will also focus on current political challenges related to fines and fees reform and the impact on civil legal justice.
Speakers
GS

Grace Spulak

Principal Court Management Consultant, National Center for State Courts
Grace Spulak, JD, is a Senior Court Management Consultant with the National Center for State Courts where she works on a variety of access to justice issues, including the use of remote hearings, rural justice, process simplification, user-testing, and regulatory reform. Grace is... Read More →
LF

Lisa Foster

Co-founder and Senior Advisor, Fines and Fees Justice Center
Lisa Foster is the Co-Founder and Senior Advisor at the Fines and Fees Justice Center (FFJC), where she leads the organization’s work with the judiciary and courts. A retired judge and the former Director of the Office for Access to Justice at the United States Department of Justice... Read More →
AC

Alisha Clegg

Associate Director of Legal Impact, Oklahoma Access to Justice Foundation
TM

Thomas More Donnelly

A Cook County Circuit Judge, Thomas More Donnelly, was sworn in as a judge more than 25 years ago on January 7, 2000. He has received over four hundred jury verdicts. He currently sits in the Law Division, Commercial Calendar, deciding motions, convening settlement conferences, and... Read More →
BG

Bob Glaves

Executive Director, The Chicago Bar Foundation
Bob Glaves has been Executive Director of The Chicago Bar Foundation since October of 1999, prior to which he had a successful nine-year career as a civil litigator in private practice. As Executive Director of the CBF, Glaves is responsible for leading and overseeing the CBF’s... Read More →
Friday May 15, 2026 10:00am - 11:15am EDT
Governers 1&2
  Sessions

10:00am EDT

From Evidence to Engagement to Action: Leveraging Research, Convening, and Direct Services for Stronger Domestic Violence Protections
Friday May 15, 2026 10:00am - 11:15am EDT
Mecklenburg 1
Domestic violence survivors often face complex, system-level barriers to obtaining and enforcing orders of protection and related civil legal remedies. To address these challenges, three South Carolina groups joined forces to create a cycle of research, convening, and service delivery to expand access to legal protections for survivors. This session will share lessons learned and practical guidance for making academic research accessible and actionable, convening stakeholders to build consensus and commitments around evidence, and translating those commitments into real service improvements.
Speakers
LM

Lisa Martin

Professor of Law, University of South Carolina Rice School of Law
Lisa Martin is a Professor of Law and the Director of the Domestic Violence Clinic at the University of South Carolina Joseph F. Rice School of Law and a member of the South Carolina Access to Justice Commission. Throughout her career, Professor Martin’s research and practice has... Read More →
SV

Shunna V. Jeter

Shunna Jeter is the Executive Director of South Carolina Legal Services (SCLS), a statewide nonprofit law firm providing civil legal assistance to low-income South Carolinians. She is also a member of the South Carolina Access to Justice Commission. Her professional background is... Read More →
HH

Hannah Honeycutt

Executive Director, South Carolina Access to Justice Commission
Hannah has served as the SC Access to Justice Commission’s executive director since June of 2019. She is a 2007 graduate of Wagner College in Staten Island, New York with a B.A., magna cum laude, in English and Spanish, and a 2013 graduate of the University of South Carolina School... Read More →
Friday May 15, 2026 10:00am - 11:15am EDT
Mecklenburg 1
  Sessions

10:00am EDT

How to Kill your Darlings: Making Bold Changes to Maximize Pro Bono Program Impact
Friday May 15, 2026 10:00am - 11:15am EDT
Symphony 2
Hemingway famously advised writers to "kill their darlings" - those aspects of a story that they love but no longer serve the overall purpose. This advice also applies to organizations running longstanding but outdated pro bono programs. Using case studies from several legal services organizations, this session will discuss knowing when your program needs a change, determining what changes to make, and successfully implementing those changes to maximize program impact.
Speakers
SB

Sarah Babcock

Co-Director, Community Justice Resource Center, Alaska Legal Services
Sarah Babcock is the Director of Saturday Lawyer and Eviction Defense Programs at Atlanta Volunteer Lawyers Foundation. These programs connect tenants experiencing housing issues with legal advocacy, information about their rights, and representation by pro bono attorney volunteers... Read More →
DM

Darcy McLean

Director of Pro Bono & Community Engagement, Alston & Bird
As the Director of Pro Bono & Community Engagement at Alston & Bird, Darcy McLean develops and maintains relationships with legal services organizations and law firm pro bono coordinators firmwide. She facilitates trainings and volunteer opportunities for attorneys and staff and manages... Read More →
KG

Kate Gaffney

Director of Pro Bono, Atlanta Legal Aid Society
Kate Gaffney is the Director of Pro Bono at Atlanta Legal Aid Society. Kate develops, manages and oversees the many ways Atlanta Legal Aid Society works with private attorneys, law students and volunteers to help further the organization’s mission of helping low-income people meet... Read More →
SJ

Sarah J. Anderson

PBU Deputy Director/Clinics & Compliance, Georgia Legal Services Program
Sarah Anderson serves as the Pro Bono Unit Deputy Director / Clinics & Compliance for Georgia Legal Services Program (GLSP). In this role, she develops clinic models that can be implemented across GLSP’s regional offices and oversees compliance with Legal Services Corporation (LSC... Read More →
Friday May 15, 2026 10:00am - 11:15am EDT
Symphony 2
  Sessions

10:00am EDT

Impact of Disaster Related Payouts to Public Benefit Recipients
Friday May 15, 2026 10:00am - 11:15am EDT
Symphony 5
Natural disasters disrupt clients' lives in many ways, affecting not only their homes and livelihoods, but also their continued receipt of public benefits. Learn how disaster-related payouts and relief programs can impact benefit eligibility as well as effective models for delivering legal services to disaster-impacted communities.
Speakers
CV

Carlos Valdes

Pro Bono Manager, Legal Aid Foundation of Los Angeles
Carlos Valdes (he/him) is the Pro Bono Manager at the Legal Aid Foundation of Los Angeles (LAFLA), where he supports the Pro Bono Disaster Response Team serving individuals affected by the 2025 Los Angeles wildfires. In his role, Carlos has coordinated volunteer attorneys and law... Read More →
JB

Jonathan Brown

Attorney, Legal Aid Foundation of Los Angeles
Jon Brown, J.D. is an attorney at the Legal Aid Foundation of Los Angeles, where he represents low-income clients with a broad range of public benefits issues as part of LAFLA’s Economic Stability Work Group. He represents clients in various administrative hearings and has litigated... Read More →
BS

Bernadette Segura

Deputy Group Coordinator, Public Benefits Group, Texas RioGrande Legal Aid
Friday May 15, 2026 10:00am - 11:15am EDT
Symphony 5
  Sessions

10:00am EDT

Justice Isn't Blind: The Role of Implicit Bias in the Courts
Friday May 15, 2026 10:00am - 11:15am EDT
Mecklenburg 3
Join this conversation to discuss how colorblindness is a barrier rather than a solution to achieving equality in society and the courts. Recently a judge said, “I always thought colorblindness was a good thing!” Other judges have stated, “I don’t notice race, I just read what’s in the court reports!” Racial bias will inevitably seep into court decision-making through language in court documents, testimonies, judicial rulings etc. A colorblind court, one in which racism is not acknowledged, can never deliver justice. Understanding interventions to interrupt colorblind courts are more urgent now than ever.
Speakers
RC

Rita Cameron Wedding

Emerita Faculty, Emerita Faculty Sacramento State University
Dr. Cameron Wedding served as department chair & faculty in the departments of Women’s & Ethnic Studies at Sacramento State University for over 20 years. Her first training program, Implicit Bias: Impact on Decision-Making, which was based on her university curriculum, became a... Read More →
SH

Shalinee Hunter

Shalinee Hunter, J.D., is a civil rights and equity leader serving as the Equal Employment Opportunity Officer, Assistant Director, and Equity Lead for the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans), where she provides enterprise-wide leadership for a workforce of more than... Read More →
Friday May 15, 2026 10:00am - 11:15am EDT
Mecklenburg 3
  Sessions

10:00am EDT

Meet Hazel to Learn About Approaches to Inclusive Work Environments
Friday May 15, 2026 10:00am - 11:15am EDT
Symphony 3
This session will introduce Hazel, New Mexico Legal Aid's facility dog. In conjunction with Assistance Dogs of the West, the presentation will focus on alternative methods to promote an inclusive work environment that addresses both visible and invisible disabilities at legal aid organizations.
Speakers
SB

Sonya Bellafant

Executive Director, New Mexico Legal Aid
Sonya G. Bellafant, Esq., is a transformational Chief Executive Officer and attorney with more than 20 years of leadership experience advancing mission-driven organizations through strategic growth, financial stabilization, and operational excellence. She has led complex, multi-site... Read More →
LM

Linda Milanesi

CEO/President, Assistance Dogs of the West
In 2006, Linda Milanesi began her career with Assistance Dogs of the West when she apprenticed to become an instructor/trainer in the school programs. She served as Vice President of the ADW board until 2011, when she was named ADW’s Executive Director. Linda oversees a whole-systems... Read More →
Friday May 15, 2026 10:00am - 11:15am EDT
Symphony 3
  Sessions

10:00am EDT

MIE Roundtable for Legal Services Executive Directors and Managers
Friday May 15, 2026 10:00am - 11:15am EDT
Carolina A
The MIE Roundtable allows legal services Executive Directors and Managers to discuss difficult challenges and pressing concerns confidentially, and to benefit from their colleagues who are willing to share their experiences. This session moves the community as a whole forward toward better management, resulting in better services to clients.
Speakers
JS

Jared S. Smith

Director of Programs, Management Information Exchange (MIE)
Jared Smith is MIE’s Director of Programs, a role in which he works to develop innovative remote and in-person trainings, engaging resources, and effective spaces for collaboration. In this role, he also supports private and legislative fundraising efforts, including by enhancing... Read More →
avatar for Yvonne Mariajimenez

Yvonne Mariajimenez

President & CEO, Neighborhood Legal Services of Los Angeles County (NLSLA)
Yvonne began her career at NLSLA more than 48 years ago, as a Paralegal/Interpreter. She was the NLSLA Deputy Director for 25 years, and became President and CEO in 2019. She is a self-proclaimed beneficiary of the transformative work legal aid provides to low-income families. When... Read More →
avatar for Alexis Smith

Alexis Smith

Executive Director, New Haven Legal Assistance
Alexis H. Smith (she/her) is the Executive Director of New Haven Legal Assistance Association (NHLAA) a nonprofit law firm whose mission is to provide high quality legal assistance to individuals and families who cannot obtain a lawyer. Prior to becoming executive director, Alexis... Read More →
Friday May 15, 2026 10:00am - 11:15am EDT
Carolina A
  Sessions

10:00am EDT

Pro Bono Immigration Practice in a Time of Increased Enforcement
Friday May 15, 2026 10:00am - 11:15am EDT
Symphony 1
Pro bono programs face a tumultuous and ever-changing landscape of increased immigration enforcement impacting their clients. This creates challenges and uncertainties in effective case management. This session brings the nonprofit, law firm, and corporate perspectives together for a real conversation on the stressors involved in pro bono immigration practice and strategies to navigate those challenges and strengthen collaborations in supporting immigrant communities.
Speakers
AB

Angela Bouliakis Andronis

Deputy Director for Pro Bono Partnerships, Kids In Need of Defense (KIND)
BH

Beth Henderson

Assistant General Counsel, Microsoft Corporation
Beth Henderson is Assistant General Counsel – Pro Bono Director at Microsoft in Redmond, Washington. In this role, she manages the strategy, budget, and operations of Microsoft’s pro bono program on a full-time basis. Her work includes developing and promoting diverse pro bono... Read More →
MS

Marianne Staniunas

Pro Bono Immigration Counsel, Ropes & Gray LLP
Marianne Staniunas is Pro Bono Immigration Counsel for Ropes & Gray LLP. Marianne has over 20 years of immigration legal experience. In her role as Pro Bono Immigration Counsel, she provides mentorship and subject matter expertise for Ropes’ attorneys representing clients in pro... Read More →
Friday May 15, 2026 10:00am - 11:15am EDT
Symphony 1
  Sessions

10:00am EDT

Tech Skills for Justice: Strengthening Legal Aid Staff Technology Competencies
Friday May 15, 2026 10:00am - 11:15am EDT
Carolina D&E
Legal aid organizations increasingly rely on technology, yet staff often face gaps in digital skills that hinder efficiency and client service. This session will share strategies for assessing staff technology competencies, mapping them to organizational needs, and implementing tailored upskilling programs. Panelists will highlight lessons learned, practical tools, and approaches to building staff confidence, ensuring tech equity, and strengthening service delivery.
Speakers
avatar for Jane Ribadeneyra

Jane Ribadeneyra

Senior Program Officer for Technology, Legal Services Corporation
Jane Ribadeneyra joined the Legal Services Corporation in 2009 and is a Senior Program Officer for Technology. She oversees technology initiative grants that improve access to high-quality legal assistance for low-income people throughout the United States and its territories. She... Read More →
avatar for David Forrester

David Forrester

IT Director, Northwest Justice Project
David Forrester leads Northwest Justice Project's dedicated technology team as IT Director. For the past 20 years, David’s work has focused on helping nonprofits develop strategies and deliver technology solutions that help broaden and deepen their positive impact. Before joining... Read More →
avatar for America Valdez

America Valdez

HR Director, Community Legal Aid of SoCal
Hello - My name is America, and I am HR Director at Community Legal Aid SoCal. I look forward to connecting with you.
Friday May 15, 2026 10:00am - 11:15am EDT
Carolina D&E
  Sessions

10:00am EDT

Testing Your New GenAI-Enhanced Tool(s) – How and Why 
Friday May 15, 2026 10:00am - 11:15am EDT
Carolina C
Generative AI has the potential to increase access to justice, but only if we engage in responsible use. To do this, we must thoroughly test AI tool performance for accuracy and iterate models based on results – before the tool is launched and after. Panelists will discuss why evaluation is key; how they determine acceptable error rates based on use and audience; how much testing is necessary; and testing methods and strategies that attendees can use.
Speakers
AT

Angela Tripp

Program Officer for Technology, Legal Services Corporation
RB

Russ Bloomquist

Program Manager & Sr. Full Stack Developer, Maryland Legal Aid
Russ Bloomquist leads innovation and automation initiatives at Maryland Legal Aid, where he leverages over 25 years of experience in software development and design. His work centers on closing the justice gap through technology, with a focus on ethical AI integration, data-driven... Read More →
Friday May 15, 2026 10:00am - 11:15am EDT
Carolina C
  Sessions

1:30pm EDT

50 Tech Tips: Tools to Boost Everyday Practice
Friday May 15, 2026 1:30pm - 2:45pm EDT
Mecklenburg 1
This lively, rapid-fire session will showcase 50 practical technology tips designed to help legal aid and pro bono staff work smarter every day. Panelists will highlight free and low-cost tools, AI-powered resources, collaboration platforms, accessibility solutions, and strategies for managing information securely. Attendees will leave with an array of easy-to-use apps, add-ons, and shortcuts they can immediately put into practice to save time, improve efficiency, and better serve clients.
Speakers
LJ

LaDierdre Johnson

Program Officer, Legal Services Corporation
avatar for Shellie Reid

Shellie Reid

Manager, Legal Services National Technology Assistance Project
Shellie Reid is the Manager of the Legal Services National Technology Assistance Project (LSNTAP). During law school, Shellie sought opportunities to gain experience beyond the normal law school path. As an ATJ Tech Fellow, Shellie learned of the many career options available to students... Read More →
avatar for Jane Ribadeneyra

Jane Ribadeneyra

Senior Program Officer for Technology, Legal Services Corporation
Jane Ribadeneyra joined the Legal Services Corporation in 2009 and is a Senior Program Officer for Technology. She oversees technology initiative grants that improve access to high-quality legal assistance for low-income people throughout the United States and its territories. She... Read More →
AT

Angela Tripp

Program Officer for Technology, Legal Services Corporation
Friday May 15, 2026 1:30pm - 2:45pm EDT
Mecklenburg 1
  Sessions

1:30pm EDT

Breaking Bread, Changing Futures: Community Solutions for Youth Justice
Friday May 15, 2026 1:30pm - 2:45pm EDT
Governers 5&6
This session combines a brief presentation with facilitated small-group conversations to show how community justice workers and trauma-informed approaches can keep youth out of the justice system. Participants will engage directly with scenarios and problem-solving discussions, leaving with practical strategies to strengthen families, build trust, and improve community safety.
Speakers
NN

Nikole Nelson

CEO, Frontline Justice
Nikole Nelson is the founding CEO of Frontline Justice. Prior to joining Frontline Justice Nikole was the Executive Director of Alaska Legal Services Corporation, Alaska’s only statewide provider of free civil aid. During her 25 years in the field, she worked to build community-led... Read More →
JC
AM

Alicia Mitchell-Mercer

Chief Operations Officer, Fontline Justice
RR

Rachel Royal

Program Coordinator, Frontline Justice
Rachel Royal is the Program Coordinator at Frontline Justice. A certified paralegal with nine years of legal field experience, she transitioned to nonprofit project and operations management in 2021. At the North Carolina Equal Access to Justice Commission, Rachel managed projects... Read More →
Friday May 15, 2026 1:30pm - 2:45pm EDT
Governers 5&6
  Sessions

1:30pm EDT

Centering Clients, Expanding Reach: Pro Bono in Rural Communities
Friday May 15, 2026 1:30pm - 2:45pm EDT
Symphony 3
Explore what it means for a pro bono program to be truly client-centered in rural and under-resourced communities. This session highlights lessons from successful service-delivery efforts, with a focus on project development, communication, and engagement strategies to expand access to services. Participants will discuss practical methods for training and engaging volunteers, including those from outside rural areas, to expand service delivery. Walk away with concrete tools to strengthen rural pro bono efforts and develop a more robust network of legal advocates.
Speakers
avatar for Anais Taboas

Anais Taboas

Program Counsel, Legal Services Corporation
Anais Taboas is program counsel for Pro Bono Innovation and Veterans Grant Administration in the Office of Program Performance. Anais previously served as the pro bono program director at Maryland Legal Aid, where she developed statewide standards for pro bono practice and supervised... Read More →
MK
BM
JS
Friday May 15, 2026 1:30pm - 2:45pm EDT
Symphony 3
  Sessions

1:30pm EDT

ChatGPT Isn't Your Lawyer: Building AI Digital Literacy
Friday May 15, 2026 1:30pm - 2:45pm EDT
Carolina D&E
Equip yourself, your colleagues, and your clients with digital literacy skills in the age of AI. Being able to evaluate AI legal tools through product research can help you recognize examples of responsible tech and prevent predatory services, while maximizing opportunities to refer self-help clients to trusted tools to solve their own problems.
Speakers
KR

Kelli Raker

Associate Program Director for Law, Technology, & Entrepreneurship Programs, Duke University, School of Law
Kelli Raker, MA, serves as the Associate Program Director for Law, Tech & Entrepreneurship Programs at the Duke Center on Law & Technology. She supports multiple initiatives and programs including RAILS (Responsible A.I. in Legal Services), the Duke Law Tech Lab, the Legal Design... Read More →
SE

Sonja Ebron

CEO, Courtroom5
Sonja Ebron is the chief executive officer at Courtroom5, a legal automation platform for people representing themselves in U.S. civil courts. She is a PhD electrical engineer and former academic with a background in utilities and AI. She serves on the Leaders Council of the Legal... Read More →
SM

Scheree M. Gilchrist

Chief Innovation Officer, Legal Aid of North Carolina
Scheree Gilchrist is the Chief Innovation Officer at Legal Aid of North Carolina (LANC).In this position, she oversees the development of a sustainable, strategic plan for innovation that will improve access to justice for clients and improve the way staff works to deliver services... Read More →
avatar for Liz Keith

Liz Keith

Chief Partnerships Officer, Pro Bono Net
Liz Keith serves as Chief Partnerships Officer at Pro Bono Net, the country’s leading nonprofit access to justice innovator with a 25-year history of impact. She has played a senior leadership role in advancing Pro Bono Net’s program strategy and cross-sector partnerships for... Read More →
Friday May 15, 2026 1:30pm - 2:45pm EDT
Carolina D&E
  Sessions

1:30pm EDT

Digital Accessibility and Disability Justice
Friday May 15, 2026 1:30pm - 2:45pm EDT
Mecklenburg 2
Digital accessibility ensures that all court users or legal service clients can access legal services and resources. If digital content is not accessible, people with disabilities can be deprived of equal access, legal rights, or basic needs. This session will address legal requirements for digital accessibility and teach participants how to address common accessibility barriers using interactive scenarios. We will close with tips and strategies from courts who are implementing digital accessibility.
Speakers
avatar for Gabriella Vazquez

Gabriella Vazquez

Court Management Consultant, National Center for State Courts
Gabriella Vazquez, MPA, is a Court Management Consultant with the National Center for State Courts. She works on a variety of access to justice initiatives at NCSC, including supporting eviction diversion programs in state courts, Safe Harbor policy development, user-centered design... Read More →
GS

Grace Spulak

Principal Court Management Consultant, National Center for State Courts
Grace Spulak, JD, is a Senior Court Management Consultant with the National Center for State Courts where she works on a variety of access to justice issues, including the use of remote hearings, rural justice, process simplification, user-testing, and regulatory reform. Grace is... Read More →
EF

Emily F. Deines

Statewide Manager of Justice Initiatives, Massachusetts Trial Court
Emily Deines has over 21 years of dedicated experience at the Massachusetts Trial Court, primarily within the Probate and Family Court, where she has developed expertise in court operations, technology, and user-centered service delivery. In April 2025, she assumed the role of Statewide... Read More →
JR

Jill Roberts

Principal Court Management Consultant, National Center for State Courts
Jill Roberts, JD, is a Principal Court Management Consultant at the National Center for State Courts. Her work is focused on expanding access to state courts with a focus on people without lawyers, people with disabilities, and people with limited English proficiency. She works closely... Read More →
Friday May 15, 2026 1:30pm - 2:45pm EDT
Mecklenburg 2
  Sessions

1:30pm EDT

Emergency and Estate Planning for Vulnerable Communities
Friday May 15, 2026 1:30pm - 2:45pm EDT
Mecklenburg 3
Estate planning tools are not reserved for the wealthy, they can help families create plans to support stabilization and transitions in caregiving and preserve housing and income stability, across generations. Learn how simple estate planning tools can serve vulnerable populations, including preparedness for immigrant or mixed-status households, older adults, and underserved disaster-prone households.
Speakers
JA

Jennifer Anders-Gable

Legal Services of Northern California
Jennifer Anders-Gable has been dedicated to serving older adults since joining Legal Services of Northern California (LSNC) in 2012 as staff attorney; she is now a regional counsel, leading the organization's disaster and elder law advocacy. Within LSNC, Jennifer's leadership involves... Read More →
BS

Bertha Sanchez Hayden

Associate Vice President for Justice for Seniors and Justice for Dependent Adults, BetTzedek Legal Services
Bertha Sanchez Hayden serves as Associate Vice Presidnet- Justice for Seniors and Dependent Adults at Bet Tzedek Legal Services. Bet Tzedek is a nationally recognized premier legal services firm in Los Angeles, California. Ms. Hayden currently oversees Direct Services for Seniors... Read More →
Friday May 15, 2026 1:30pm - 2:45pm EDT
Mecklenburg 3
  Sessions

1:30pm EDT

Leading Through the Storm: Building Resilient Legal Aid Organizations in Challenging Times
Friday May 15, 2026 1:30pm - 2:45pm EDT
Carolina A
How do we lead when crisis hits from every direction? In this panel, three executive directors of North Carolina civil legal aid programs share how they led through overlapping shocks: Hurricane Helene without federal disaster legal funding, a statewide freeze on IOLTA funds, and the hard realities of layoffs and restructuring. They will offer candid lessons on decision making under pressure. Attendees will leave inspired and equipped with practical tools to sustain morale, communicate stability, and turn disruption into forward momentum.
Speakers
AC

Ashley Campbell

CEO, Legal Aid of North Carolina
Ashley Campbell is the CEO of Legal Aid of North Carolina, where she leads a statewide organization advancing access to justice for more than two million income-eligible North Carolinians each year. She began her legal career at Legal Aid in 2003 as a staff attorney, representing... Read More →
JK

Jackie Kiger

CEO, Pisgah Legal Services
Jaclyn “Jackie” Kiger, JD, MSW is the Executive Director of Pisgah Legal Services (PLS). Pisgah Legal Services is a nonprofit legal-aid law firm serving Western North Carolina since 1978. PLS provides civil legal advocacy to help low-income individuals and families meet their... Read More →
LM

Larissa Mañón Mervin

CEO, Charlotte Center for Legal Advocacy
Larissa Mañón Mervin, Esq. is the Chief Executive Officer at Charlotte Center for Legal Advocacy, a regional civil legal services organization that offers holistic civil legal aid to those in need. Larissa sets the organization’s strategic direction and ensures financial sustainability... Read More →
Friday May 15, 2026 1:30pm - 2:45pm EDT
Carolina A
  Sessions

1:30pm EDT

Volunteers Tell All: Peeking Behind the Curtain With Corporate and Law Firm Pro Bono Leaders
Friday May 15, 2026 1:30pm - 2:45pm EDT
Carolina C
What do firm and corporate partners want and need in a pro bono partnership? How can we motivate transactional corporate attorneys to take pro bono cases in court? Is it awkward to ask a firm to pay for lunch? Hear from corporate and law firm pro bono leaders in a Q&A style panel, and brainstorm ways to improve partnerships between firms, corporations, and legal services organizations.
Speakers
AZ

Angie Zimmern

Pro Bono Director and Counsel, McGuireWoods
As McGuireWoods’ pro bono director, counsel Angie Zimmern expands the firm’s commitment to developing and sustaining pro bono programs recognized nationally for innovation and impact.

Angie leads the firm’s most successful pro bono initiatives, including Charlotte Triage... Read More →
TS

Todd Stilleman

Senior Associate General Counsel & Managing Director, Wells Fargo
Todd Stillerman is Senior Associate General Counsel and Managing Director at Wells Fargo, where he leads the Commercial Real Estate and Structured Products legal section and helps guide the company through complex transactions, risk considerations, and enterprise?wide initiatives... Read More →
JL

Julie Leopold

Adult and Community Engagement Manager, Baltimore County Public Library
Julie Brophy has been working in libraries her entire career, starting with a small academic library in her home state of New York, with stops at Charlotte Mecklenburg Public Library, as a Graduate Assistant in digital services at the University of Maryland’s McKeldin Library, and... Read More →
AS

Allison S. Constance

Legal Aid of North Carolina
Friday May 15, 2026 1:30pm - 2:45pm EDT
Carolina C
  Sessions

3:00pm EDT

Bridging the Justice Gap with Community Justice Workers: Lessons from Texas & Beyond
Friday May 15, 2026 3:00pm - 4:15pm EDT
Mecklenburg 2
Despite growth in attorneys and pro bono services, 92 percent of low-income Americans’ civil legal needs remain unmet. Community Justice Workers (CJWs) offer a scalable model by training non-attorney advocates to provide structured, limited-scope legal support. This session will examine national developments and share lessons from Texas, where CJW projects are being built now, even without formal certification. Participants will leave with practical strategies to responsibly launch CJW pilots in their own states.
Speakers
NN

Nikole Nelson

CEO, Frontline Justice
Nikole Nelson is the founding CEO of Frontline Justice. Prior to joining Frontline Justice Nikole was the Executive Director of Alaska Legal Services Corporation, Alaska’s only statewide provider of free civil aid. During her 25 years in the field, she worked to build community-led... Read More →
avatar for Cristian Sanchez

Cristian Sanchez

Economic Justice Director, Texas Immigration Law Council
Cristian is the Economic Justice Director at Texas Immigration Law Council where he leads the design and implementation of a program to expand access to civil legal services for low-income Texans through innovation, including Community Justice workers. He is doing this through standing... Read More →
BC

Bethany Carson

Community Justice Worker Coordinator, Texas Immigration Law Council
Bethany Carson is an Equal Justice Works Fellow and the Community Justice Worker Coordinator at the Texas Immigration Law Council, where she supports a statewide cohort of non-attorney fellows expanding access to justice for noncitizen communities. With over a decade of experience... Read More →
Friday May 15, 2026 3:00pm - 4:15pm EDT
Mecklenburg 2
  Sessions

3:00pm EDT

Data with Balance: Captivating Funders Without Becoming Captive to the Numbers
Friday May 15, 2026 3:00pm - 4:15pm EDT
Carolina D&E
This session explores how legal aid organizations can use data to inspire funders without losing sight of mission or community needs. Panelists will share strategies for aligning grant deliverables with real-world impact, effectively communicating data to funders, and requesting modifications when needs shift. We’ll also examine how data can be misused or oversimplified—and how maintaining integrity in storytelling ensures continued trust, funding, and meaningful service to those who need it most.
Speakers
AM

Antonia More

Director/Managing Attorney, Pro Bono Legal Services, Justice & Diversity Center of the Bar Association of San Francisco
Antonia More is the Director and Managing Attorney of Pro Bono Legal Services at the Justice & Diversity Center of the Bar Association of San Francisco (JDC). Under her direction, JDC provides free legal services to low-income litigants in San Francisco through its various initiatives... Read More →
BR

Bonnie Rose Hough

Principal, Bonnie Rose Hough, Consulting
Bonnie Rose Hough is a consultant on access to justice issues working with courts and legal services agencies. She retired in December 2022 as Principal Managing Attorney for the Center for Families, Children & the Courts of the Judicial Council of California where she worked for... Read More →
Friday May 15, 2026 3:00pm - 4:15pm EDT
Carolina D&E
  Sessions

3:00pm EDT

Developing and Delivering Community Legal Services in Hawaiʻi Through Expungement and Bench Warrant Recall Clinics
Friday May 15, 2026 3:00pm - 4:15pm EDT
Mecklenburg 3
Discover how Hawaiʻi’s Judiciary, Public Defender’s Office, ACLU Hawaiʻi, Volunteer Legal Services of Hawaiʻi, the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa - William S. Richardson School of Law, and community partners joined forces to deliver expungement and bench warrant recall clinics for under-resourced communities. This session explores the project’s origins, cultural adaptation, and use of technology to maximize impact, and offers practical tips for creating pro bono clinics through strong community support and with limited budgets.
Speakers
EE

E. Edward Aquino

Deputy Public Defender, State of Hawaii, Office of the Public Defender
Edward Aquino is a Deputy Public Defender with the State of Hawai'i, Office of the Public Defender where he currently serves as a co-supervisor of the Felony Division in the Honolulu Office. Prior to his current role, he was a senior trial deputy litigating serious and high-profile... Read More →
DH

Daylin-Rose H. Heather

Deputy Administrative Director of the Courts, Hawai?i State Judiciary
Daylin-Rose H. Heather is the Deputy Administrative Director of the Courts at the Hawai'i State Judiciary. Daylin has been with the Judiciary in various roles as a staff attorney at the Hawai'i Supreme Court, Special Assistant to the Administrative Director of the Courts, and judicial... Read More →
SA

Sergio Alcubilla

Director of Community Engagement, ACLU of Hawaii
Sergio Alcubilla is the Director of Community Engagement at the ACLU of Hawai?i where he oversees the communications team and leads community organizing and public education efforts centered on the ACLU of Hawai‘i’s priorities.

Sergio comes to the ACLU of Hawai?i having previously served as the Executive Director of the Hawai‘i Workers Center, a non-profit organization that organizes lower-wage workers to organize for their own political, economic, and social well-being. In this role, Sergio led initiatives... Read More →
MM

Melanie May

District Court Judge, Hawaii State Judiciary
Melanie May is a District Court Judge in Honolulu, Hawai`i.  Since her appointment to the bench in 2011, she has presided over the civil, criminal, and traffic calendars, as well as the DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) Court.  

Judge May currently serves on the Judiciary Committee on Equality and Access to the Courts, the Judiciary Committee on Innovation, Technology, and Self-Represented Litigants, the HSBA Committee on Delivery of Legal Services to the Public, the Hawai`i Access to Justice Commission... Read More →
Friday May 15, 2026 3:00pm - 4:15pm EDT
Mecklenburg 3
  Sessions

3:00pm EDT

Empowering Legal Aid: A Toolkit for Serving Communities Impacted by Opioid Use Disorder
Friday May 15, 2026 3:00pm - 4:15pm EDT
Symphony 2
Discover how Opioid Crisis Response Fellows are addressing the opioid epidemic. The panelists will identify civil legal aid issues associated with the opioid crisis and provide collaborative and systemic approaches to the development of an OUD-focused Medical Legal Partnership. Participants will feel empowered to join the growing workforce of Legal Aid OUD-specialists to create community-based solutions and close service gaps.
Speakers
TG

Touri Goode

Program Manager, Equal Justice Works
avatar for Lauren Williams

Lauren Williams

Equal Justice Works Opioid Crisis Response Fellow, Legal Aid of Southeast and Central Ohio
Lauren Williams is an Equal Justice Works Fellow at Legal Aid of Southeast and Central Ohio (LASCO), where they provide direct legal services and build partnerships with medical, judicial, and community organizations to help reduce opioid fatalities. Working within a harm reduction... Read More →
CS

Carrie Stambaugh

Equal Justice Works Opioid Crisis Response Fellow, Legal Aid of the Bluegrass
Carrie Stambaugh is an Equal Justice Works Fellow in the Opioid Crisis Response Program and a Staff Attorney at Legal Aid of the Bluegrass. Based in rural northeast, Kentucky, her practice is centered on providing direct civil legal services to low-income and substance use affected... Read More →
JA

Justin Apperson

Equal Justice Works Opioid Crisis Response Fellow, Appalachian Research and Defense Fund of Kentucky
Justin Apperson is an attorney and Equal Justice Works Fellow, Opioid Crisis Response Program working with AppalReD Legal Aid in Prestonsburg, Kentucky. His fellowship project focuses on building partnerships with Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) treatment providers in Eastern Kentucky to... Read More →
avatar for Helen Gratil

Helen Gratil

Consultant, Beyond Opioids
Helen Gratil is a national consultant and speaker focused on civil legal interventions for individuals impacted by the opioid crisis – specializing in fundraising, training, and project management. In 2019, Helen raised $2.2 million to launch Beyond Opioids Project, through her... Read More →
Friday May 15, 2026 3:00pm - 4:15pm EDT
Symphony 2
  Sessions

3:00pm EDT

Fighting Against LGBTQ+ Bias in the Legal System to Preserve Democracy
Friday May 15, 2026 3:00pm - 4:15pm EDT
Mecklenburg 1
Fair courts and an independent judiciary are foundational to our democracy. Young LGBTQ+ people in foster care are required to engage with numerous systems to meet basic needs. Also, research shows that LGBTQ+ people face disproportionate rates of incarceration and interactions with law enforcement. This workshop is for advocates to learn skills and tools to affirm and enforce the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals and people living with HIV in the legal system through the provision of legal services.
Speakers
ER

Ethan Rice

Senior Attorney, Lambda Legal
Ethan Rice is the Senior Attorney for the Fair Courts Project at Lambda Legal. Lambda Legal is the oldest and largest national legal organization committed to achieving full recognition of the rights of LGBTQ+ people and everyone living with HIV. The Fair Courts Project focuses its... Read More →
LI

Luna Isaiah Floyd

Equal Justice Works Fellow, Lambda Legal
Luna Isaiah Floyd (they/he) is an Equal Justice Works Fellow at Lambda Legal. Their work with Lambda Legal's Youth in Out-of-Home Care Project centers the needs of transgender youth in foster care and juvenile justice settings, as well as transgender youth experiencing homelessness... Read More →
RS

Richard Saenz

Counsel, Lambda Legal
Richard Saenz (he/him) is Counsel and the Criminal Legal System Strategist at Lambda Legal, the oldest and largest national legal organization committed to achieving full recognition of the civil rights of LGBTQ+ people and those living with HIV. He is the project manager of Protected... Read More →
Friday May 15, 2026 3:00pm - 4:15pm EDT
Mecklenburg 1
  Sessions

3:00pm EDT

From Tokenism to Transformation: Centering System-Impacted Leaders in Legal and Policy Work
Friday May 15, 2026 3:00pm - 4:15pm EDT
Symphony 3
Many legal organizations aspire to “uplift impacted voices,” but struggle with what that actually looks like in practice. Too often, this leads to tokenism rather than real power-sharing. In this interactive skills-building session, panelists will share concrete strategies for embedding system-impacted leadership at every level of an organization, from governance and compensation practices to leadership pipelines and participatory advocacy models. Participants will gain practical tools, including sample policies, frameworks, and checklists, to guide their own organizations toward authentic power-sharing and will leave with actionable steps for moving beyond rhetoric to meaningful transformation across the legal advocacy field.
Speakers
avatar for Paul Briley

Paul Briley

Executive Director, Legal Services for Prisoners with Children
Paul Briley emerged as the newest Executive Director of Legal Services for Prisoners with Children in over 20 years and rose quickly in his leadership as an influential driver of the national network for All of Us or None. His ability to draw from the past and present through a prism... Read More →
ST

Sonja Tonnesen-Casalegno

Advocacy Director, Legal Services for Prisoners with Children
Sonja Tonnesen-Casalegno, Esq., Advocacy Director, Legal Services for Prisoners with Children

Sonja is a movement lawyer and lifelong advocate for racial and gender justice who has spent over 15 years working to transform the carceral system. Born and raised outside Milwaukee, WI, Sonja grew up in a family deeply committed to social justice and with loved ones directly impacted... Read More →
DV

Daryl V. Atkinson

Founder & Executive Director, Second Chance Federation
Friday May 15, 2026 3:00pm - 4:15pm EDT
Symphony 3
  Sessions

3:00pm EDT

Leveraging Our Power for Systemic Impact: When Law Firms Become Expert Thought Partners
Friday May 15, 2026 3:00pm - 4:15pm EDT
Symphony 1
This dynamic session reimagines the roles of law firms and legal services organizations (LSOs); rather than operating within the traditional pro bono/LSO referral model, some firms are increasingly building deep subject matter expertise and positioning themselves as strategic thought partners in solving complex societal challenges. Panelists will explore how law firms and LSOs can work together to shift from the one-off client representation model to identifying patterns of injustice, helping diagnose systemic legal issues, and collaborating across sectors to co-create lasting solutions. Using real-world examples, the discussion will highlight how firms can harness their resources, influence, and legal acumen to drive meaningful reform—moving from reactive service to proactive, systems-minded leadership.
Speakers
KV
NK

Natalie Kraner

Pro Bono Partner and Legal Director, Lowenstein Center for the Public Interest, Lowenstein Sandler LLP
Natalie is a Pro Bono Partner at Lowenstein Sandler LLP and the Legal Director of the firm's Center for the Public Interest. In this role, she has helped expand the firm's historic commitment to public service by building an award-winning program that annually serves hundreds of low-income... Read More →
JK
TS
Friday May 15, 2026 3:00pm - 4:15pm EDT
Symphony 1
  Sessions

3:00pm EDT

Meeting The Moment: Supporting Nonprofits in Times of Crisis
Friday May 15, 2026 3:00pm - 4:15pm EDT
Carolina A
This session will help participants gain a deeper understanding of the needs of community-based nonprofits in the wake of mass funding cuts, executive orders, new immigration policies, and increased federal scrutiny. The session will educate the legal community on how best to support, defend, and protect nonprofits that advance equity and serve immigrant communities, including in under-resourced, rural communities. The goal is to activate and equip legal aid lawyers and the pro bono community with the tools to support nonprofits and sustain civil society through crisis and uncertainty.
Speakers
RK

Rene Kathawala

Pro Bono Counsel, Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe LLP
Rene Kathawala serves as Orrick's firmwide pro bono counsel, responsible for managing and initiating the firm's pro bono activities, including all administrative and legal aspects.

Rene works with other pro bono counsel and legal services nonprofits to increase the quantity and quality of pro bono representation that is being provided to indigent clients in each of the cities worldwide where Orrick has a presence. In addition, he supervises and directly works... Read More →
RM

Ritu Mahajan

Directing Attorney, Public Counsel
Ritu Mahajan Estes is the Directing Attorney of Public Counsel’s Community Development Project. Previously, she served as a Supervising Senior Staff Attorney within the project, where she led its small business and early care and education initiatives. During her 16 years at Public... Read More →
KE

Kathryn Eidmann

President and CEO, Public Counsel
Kathryn Eidmann is Public Counsel’s President and Chief Executive Officer. A leading civil rights lawyer, Kathryn has spent over a decade at Public Counsel leading innovative legal advocacy to advance justice for communities across the country. She has litigated major cases in the... Read More →
MK

Matt Kugizaki

Pro Bono Director, Inland Counties Legal Services
Matt Kugizaki is an attorney and the Pro Bono Director at Inland Counties Legal Services. Inland Counties Legal Services is a nonprofit legal services organization serving Riverside and San Bernardino counties. Matt oversees ICLS’ pro bono programs, including a Small Business Legal... Read More →
Friday May 15, 2026 3:00pm - 4:15pm EDT
Carolina A
  Sessions
 
Saturday, May 16
 

8:30am EDT

Eyes on Justice: Creative Volunteer Pathways to Strengthen Immigration Due Process
Saturday May 16, 2026 8:30am - 9:45am EDT
Mecklenburg 2
Across the United States, immigrants are facing profound barriers to accessing justice. At the same time, many attorneys, students, and community members are eager to help but are unsure how to get involved or cannot commit to full representation. Innovative volunteer models are emerging that allow supporters to contribute meaningfully through “light-touch” engagement that still produces powerful impact. This panel will highlight two initiatives - a court observation project and a legal screening hotline - that expand access to justice through creative volunteer engagement models.
Speakers
SK

Stacey Kim

Staff Attorney, American Bar Association Commission on Immigration
Stacy Kim (she/her/ella) is a Staff Attorney at the ABA Commission on Immigration (COI). Stacy has worked on various projects involving volunteer training, detention hotline work, asylum clinics, and materials development.

Prior to being at COI, Stacy was a fellow/staff attorney... Read More →
AK

Alla Karagodin Holmes

Program Manager, Witness for Justice, Public Education and Engagement, Acacia Center for Justice
Saturday May 16, 2026 8:30am - 9:45am EDT
Mecklenburg 2
  Sessions

8:30am EDT

Justice Without Walls: Virtual Models That Bring Legal Help Home
Saturday May 16, 2026 8:30am - 9:45am EDT
Carolina A
Across the country, most people face civil legal problems alone. Legal Hand, developed in New York and expanded to North Carolina, reimagines access to justice by training community volunteers—not lawyers—to provide free legal information and referrals. New York operates a virtual network of regional centers and North Carolina runs a statewide Call-In Center serving all 100 counties. Together, they demonstrate how community-driven innovation can expand reach, build trust, and deliver justice without walls.
Speakers
SN

Sylvia Novinsky

Director, NC Pro Bono Resource Center, NC Equal Access to Justice Commission
Sylvia K. Novinsky

Director, NC Pro Bono Resource Center

Equal Access to Justice Commission



Bio:



Sylvia K. Novinsky is the director of the NC Pro Bono Resource Center, a program of theNorth Carolina Equal Access to Justice Commission. She has been in this role since 2016... Read More →
JS

Joseph Schieffer

CEO, A2J Tech
Joseph is the founder and CEO of A2J Tech. A2J Tech is a public benefit corporation that builds technology to improve access to justice.

Joseph holds a Master of Science in Business Administration from the University of Florida, and a Bachelor of Science from the United States Air Force Academy. Joseph enjoys exploring Colorado's outdoors and trail running... Read More →
FF

Fern Fisher

Executive Director, Legal Hand
Saturday May 16, 2026 8:30am - 9:45am EDT
Carolina A
  Sessions

8:30am EDT

Meeting ‘em Where They’re At: How Civil Legal Aid Promotes Overdose Prevention and SUD Advocacy
Saturday May 16, 2026 8:30am - 9:45am EDT
Mecklenburg 3
Legal Action of Wisconsin’s Overdose Prevention Project has spent two years integrating outreach and civil legal aid into the harm reduction community, especially in Milwaukee. We especially focus on some of the most vulnerable and underserved communities. Learn about our three-pronged approach that incorporates outreach, education and advocacy (in legal proceedings and with appropriate officials and organizations) to address individual client needs and seek systemic change and support for persons and communities affected by substance use disorder.
Speakers
CB

Charles Bowen

Staff Attorney, Legal Action of Wisconsin
Charlie Bowen is a staff attorney with Legal Action of Wisconsin and the primary attorney for their Overdose Prevention Project. This project is designed to meet clients where they are at and provide civil legal aid for people impacted by Substance Use Disorder (SUD). Entering its... Read More →
KR

Karyn Rotker

Staff Attorney, Legal Action of Wisconsin

Karyn Rotker is a Staff Attorney for Legal Action of Wisconsin’s Milwaukee office. Her current work focuses on issues including consumer law, housing conditions and transportation justice. She previously worked for a civil rights organization for more than 20 years, and before... Read More →
NG

Nicole Gorscak

Paralegal, Legal Action of Wisconsin
Nicole Gorscak (she/her/hers) is a Paralegal with Legal Action of Wisconsin. She received a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology with a specialization in Criminology and a Minor in Film from Ohio University in Athens, Ohio, before obtaining a Post-Baccualaurette Certificate in in Paralegal... Read More →
ME

Malinda Eskra

Managing Attorney, Legal Action of Wisconsin, Inc.
Malinda Eskra (she/her) is the Managing Attorney of Legal Action of Wisconsin’s Milwaukee office, the largest nonprofit provider of civil legal services in the state. She oversees teams working in housing stability, family law, public benefits, elder rights, and criminal records... Read More →
Saturday May 16, 2026 8:30am - 9:45am EDT
Mecklenburg 3
  Sessions
 

Get help with the event

Contact event planner Event login
View support guides Find upcoming events
Create an event you'd love to attend!
Explore why organizers choose Sched • Success stories
Event App • Event scheduling • Event registration • Event ticketing • Sched forms • Call for papers • Badges • Conferences
© 2026. SCHED LLC - All rights reserved - Helping events since 2008
Conference Scheduling Software • Privacy • Terms
Share Modal

Share this link via

Or copy link

Filter sessions
Apply filters to sessions.
Tuesday, May 12
Wednesday, May 13
Thursday, May 14
Friday, May 15
Saturday, May 16
1327 S Mint St. Charlotte, NC, 28203
Cardinal 1 - 3
Carolina A
Carolina C
Carolina D&E
CJ's (on-site)
Governers 1&2
Governers 5&6
Lower Symphony Lounge
Mecklenburg 1
Mecklenburg 2
Mecklenburg 3
Piedmont
Symphony 1
Symphony 2
Symphony 3
Symphony 4
Symphony 5
Symphony 6
Symphony Foyer
TBA
  • Networking Lunch Sessions
  • Plenaries
  • Pre-Conference
  • Sessions