This week I had the privilege of participating in the Pro Bono Clinic hosted by Bilzin Sumberg in partnership with the Cuban American Bar Association (CABA). Led by Raquel Fernandez from our litigation department, alongside representatives from CABA, the clinic brought together Bilzin attorneys and summer associates to assist undocumented minors who have experienced neglect, abuse, or abandonment as they begin the process of seeking Special Immigrant Juvenile (SIJ) status. The clinic focused on helping clients and their caregivers complete the initial petitions necessary to begin a legal process that can ultimately provide stability, protection, and opportunities for the future.

Supporting Clients Through the Legal Process

At the start of the clinic, each summer associate was paired with a Bilzin Sumberg attorney and assigned a client. I was paired with Savannah Bergeron, who has experience doing CABA pro bono work both as a former Bilzin summer associate and now as an attorney at the firm. Her guidance throughout the afternoon was invaluable, and watching how naturally she navigated the process gave me a real sense of the kind of lawyer this firm develops over time.

Working in small groups, we met with our clients and their caregivers to learn about their backgrounds, experiences, and adjustment to life in the United States. We sat with families, listened to their stories, and worked to build the kind of trust that made them comfortable sharing details that are not always easy to talk about. From there, we helped gather information, organize documentation, and prepare the required petitions.

A Personally Meaningful Experience

For me, the experience carried a special significance. Coming from an immigrant family myself, I was able to relate to many of the challenges and opportunities that accompany building a life in a new country. Because my client and caregiver were Spanish speakers, I was also able to communicate with them in their native language throughout the afternoon.

Those conversations created an immediate sense of connection and allowed me to play a more active role in the process. Being able to engage the client in the process and make the experience more comfortable for the family was incredibly rewarding. It served as a reminder that effective advocacy is often about more than legal knowledge. It is also about listening, communicating, and making people feel heard.

Looking Ahead

By the end of the afternoon, each team had spent several hours carefully working through the petitions and supporting their clients through an important step in their legal journey. Walking out of the clinic, I felt a sense of purpose that is hard to replicate in any other setting. I am grateful to Raquel, Savannah, and everyone at Bilzin Sumberg and CABA who made this experience possible. If there is one thing I will carry with me long after this summer ends, it is the reminder that the skills we develop as lawyers can make a real difference in people’s lives. Opportunities like these are what make Bilzin Sumberg such a special place to grow as an attorney.