twelve-step program while in jail. He also testified that he had hopes of becoming a barber and had already started cutting the hair of everyone in the county jail, including his own, which was well-groomed at the hearing. The judge was sympathetic and fully aware of the impeding war in Eritrea. She reiterated that he needed to continue attending treatment, which he agreed to do, then she granted his 42-B waiver. The client was released from custody the next day, relieved he was given a second chance and grateful for the assistance for his pro bono lawyers. Jessica was assisted by a colleague at another firm and lawyers at Advocates for Human Rights. “During a year of so much hardship, I wanted to give back. I do pro bono work as a way to help in those in need in our community.” – Jessica Sharpe
SECURING HOUSING STABILITY
T
Lukas Boehning
he last year has been particularly difficult for many tenants and small landlords alike. Maintaining a clean rental history is vitally important to find housing in a tight market. Small landlords need the income from renters to survive. Balancing those needs is critical, as is ensuring fairness and accurate accounting. Such was the case when Lukas Boehning represented a tenant who was evicted for nonpayment of rent and who also had a large judgment entered against her. She needed to dispute the amount owed and have the eviction expunged so she could secure new housing. She turned to Volunteer Lawyers Network for a referral and Lukas stepped in. 6
