2024 PBCR/PLC: Full Schedule

9:00am CDT

Welcome, Texas Access to Justice Commission & Legal Access Department Updates

Tuesday August 27, 2024 9:00am - 9:20am CDT

Salon D

Speakers

April Faith-Slaker

Legal Access Department Director, SBOT

Tuesday August 27, 2024 9:00am - 9:20am CDT
Salon D

Pro Bono Coordinators Retreat

9:20am CDT

Texas Access to Justice Foundation Update

Tuesday August 27, 2024 9:20am - 9:35am CDT

Salon D

Speakers

Betty Balli Torres

Executive Director, Texas Access to Justice Foundation

Betty Balli Torres has served as the Executive Director of the Texas Access to Justice Foundation, the largest Texas-based funder for legal services to the poor, since October 2001. Betty has a career dedicated to public interest work. Betty started as a staff attorney at Legal Aid... Read More →

Tuesday August 27, 2024 9:20am - 9:35am CDT
Salon D

Pro Bono Coordinators Retreat

9:45am CDT

Empowering Partnerships: Maximizing Pro Bono Collaborations for Impactful Projects & Strategic Case Placement (.25 Ethics)

Tuesday August 27, 2024 9:45am - 11:00am CDT

Salon D

The landscape of pro bono recruitment is dynamic, requiring us to remain vigilant and adaptable. Our goal is to stay ahead by embracing innovation and staying attuned to shifts in the landscape. In this session, we will explore strategies crafted to effectively market pro bono cases and projects to corporate legal departments and law firms. Central to our discussion is the meticulous alignment of pro bono opportunities with the strategic goals of these entities. By delving into considerations such as diversity, equity, and inclusion objectives, as well as company mission statements, we aim to elevate pro bono initiatives to new levels of impact and relevance. We will also delve into the crucial task of assessing skills and nurturing professional growth among pro bono attorneys. By tailoring our approach to case placement and project development, we can maximize our impact. Furthermore, we will examine HVL's innovative Pro Bono Coordinator Toolkit, designed to equip Pro Bono Coordinators with the resources necessary to enhance their pro bono recruitment efforts.

Speakers

Brittany Krohn

Pro Bono Director, Houston Volunteer Lawyers Program

Amy Farish

Yetter Coleman LLP

PBC powerpoint Empowering Partnerships 2024 08 17 pptx

Tuesday August 27, 2024 9:45am - 11:00am CDT
Salon D

Pro Bono Coordinators Retreat

11:05am CDT

From "Versus" to "And": Tools for Resolving Competing Pro Bono Interests (.25 Ethics)

Tuesday August 27, 2024 11:05am - 12:20pm CDT

Salon D

In this interactive, group-think session, attendees will discuss common pro bono situations where there are competing interests and learn about solutions to resolve that competition. In addition to group discussion, attendees will also learn about technological solutions in case management systems, software, and AI, including demonstrations. The session will serve as a starting point discussion on difficult pro bono issues, potential solutions, and whether we can truly meet all pro bono interests.

Speakers

Mary Molandes

Director of Case Management System Training, Lone Star Legal Aid

I'm a native of East Texas. I've worked for Lone Star Legal Aid for 25 years, with the last 20 years being the trainer for our case management systems. I also facilitate our Brown Bag Trainings and assist with compliance.

Jessie Campbell

Supervising Attorney, Lone Star Legal Aid

I am the Supervising Attorney for Compliance and Private Attorney Involvement. I love talking all things pro bono, but you will often find me talking about marketing and recruitment. I have been with Lone Star Legal Aid since December 2019. Prior to that, I was the Pro Bono... Read More →

Oborn, Ashley

Director of Data Analytics, Lone Star Legal Aid

PBCR From Versus to Add pptx

Tuesday August 27, 2024 11:05am - 12:20pm CDT
Salon D

Pro Bono Coordinators Retreat

1:30pm CDT

Helping Pro Bono Attorneys Deliver Culturally Competent Services – Ways To Support Pro Bono Attorneys with Their First Client Meeting & Beyond (.50 Ethics)

Tuesday August 27, 2024 1:30pm - 2:45pm CDT

Salon D

This session equips our pro bono teams to create pro bono projects and practices that help pro bono attorneys identify and overcome linguistic and cultural barriers to effectively deliver pro bono services to help immigrants. Texas is home to many low-income immigrants from many different nationalities and cultures. Yes, many pro bono attorneys have little experience working through interpreters and are hesitant to represent non-English speakers from diverse cultures on pro bono matters. Attorneys from three Texas’ pro bono programs, ProBAR, Human Rights Initiative and Tahirih Justice Center will share what approaches their pro bono programs are using to encourage and support pro bono attorneys to represent non-English speakers, using tools, program supports, and training modules to help pro bono attorneys overcome common linguistic and cultural barriers that impede communication and effective representation. Participants will engage in an interactive session to discuss the do’s and do-nots when it comes to using non-professional interpreters. We will also dive into conversations of what practices pro bono teams can use to facilitate an effective first attorney/ client meeting.

Speakers

Anne Chandler

Executive Director, Texas Immigration Law Council

Hi, I'm incredibly interested in how we can try bold strategies to help immigrants and refugees in Texas access basic civil legal services. I am eager to see how we can work collaboratively to create legal structures that function and permit all individuals easily access their ri... Read More →

Lucero, Richard

Human Rights Initiative Of North Texas

Lauren Fisher Flores

Helping Pro Bono Attorneys Deliver Culturally Comp. Serv. pptx

Tuesday August 27, 2024 1:30pm - 2:45pm CDT
Salon D

Pro Bono Coordinators Retreat

2:55pm CDT

Getting Started with Pro Bono Parole Representation

Tuesday August 27, 2024 2:55pm - 4:10pm CDT

Salon D

Tens of thousands of incarcerated people are considered for parole in Texas each year, yet only a tiny fraction have access to representation. Counsel is critical: in our experience, representation increases the chance of success from about 33% to more than 80%. This presentation will provide an overview of the parole process in Texas, the positive impacts of representation, and the benefits to law firms of adding this important work to their pro bono practices. Participants will learn about the timeline of parole representation matters and the work required, including the basics of working with incarcerated clients, putting together a parole packet, and how administrative parole hearings work. Samples, guides, checklists, and other resources will be available for interested attorneys.

Speakers

Caitlin Halpern

Gibbs & Bruns

Gaebler, Helen

Senior Research Attorney, UT School of Law

Cassandra Geiken

University of Texas School of Law Parole Project

8 26 2024 Getting Started with Pro Bono Parole Representation CLE (Clean) pptx

Tuesday August 27, 2024 2:55pm - 4:10pm CDT
Salon D

Pro Bono Coordinators Retreat

8:30am CDT

Developing a Pipeline of Attorneys Dedicated to Service: The Rural Intern Program

Wednesday August 28, 2024 8:30am - 9:40am CDT

Salon D

Providing interns an incredible experience can attract young lawyers to underserved communities. This session will explore the good, bad, and ugly of how Diaz & Wright developed a Rural Internship program with community partners and local courts in one of the poorest counties in Texas. Participants will takeaway best practices, sample forms, and sample schedules for robust internship programs to attract talented and community minded young attorneys.

Speakers

Matthew Wright

Judge / Attorney, Diaz & Wright, PLLC

Jessica Hart

Senior Associate, Diaz & Wright

DW ProBono Pipeline Presentation8 19 24 pptx

Wednesday August 28, 2024 8:30am - 9:40am CDT
Salon D

Pro Bono Coordinators Retreat

9:50am CDT

Recent Learnings & Trends from Working with Law Firms & In-House Counsel To Provide Pro Bono Services to Immigrants (.50 Ethics)

Wednesday August 28, 2024 9:50am - 11:00am CDT

Salon D

This session offers an overview of updates on the rapidly evolving pro bono landscape with the goal of equipping pro bono coordinators and non-profit legal services staff with insights and practical tools to better recruit and retain pro bono attorneys from small, mid-size and large-size law firms and in-house counsel to deliver free legal services to immigrants. Key topics include (a) creating campaigns that take advantage of pro bono partners eagerness to step-up and help when front-line stories focus on the legal needs of certain immigrant populations (e.g. Afghanis and Ukrainians); (b) creating pro bono opportunities that bring together in-house counsel and law firms to work together on a time-bound project and (c) creating limited engagement opportunities that provide meaningful help to immigrants (e.g. Access to Work & Citizenship initiatives). In this interactive session attorneys from Human Rights Initiative, Tahirih Justice Center and Texas Immigration Law Council will highlight insights on how we, across rural and urban landscapes, can motivate and inspire more pro bono attorneys to volunteer their time to represent immigrants on a variety of pro bono matters. The session is facilitated by Texas Immigration Law Council, a statewide legal resource and advocacy center.

Speakers

Anne Chandler

Executive Director, Texas Immigration Law Council

Maricarmen Garza

Director Strategic Partnerships and Community Engagement, Tahirih Justice Center

Shalaina Abioye

Executive Director, Human Rights Initiative Of North Texas

Recent learnings and trends from working with law firms and pro bono counsel pptx

Wednesday August 28, 2024 9:50am - 11:00am CDT
Salon D

Pro Bono Coordinators Retreat

11:00am CDT

Make a Difference: Interactive Team Competition with ABA Free Legal Answers Luncheon

Wednesday August 28, 2024 11:00am - 12:15pm CDT

Salon E

Join us for a fun and interactive team competition designed to make a real difference! This engaging session will introduce you to ABA Free Legal Answers, a virtual legal advice clinic run by Texas Legal Services Center. Not only will you enjoy a spirited competition with your peers, but you'll also learn how to provide valuable legal assistance to those in need.
To participate, please create a profile in advance to assist with preregistration. For any questions about registration or more information about ABA Free Legal Answers, feel free to email mrios@tlsc.org.

To create a profile for Free Legal Answers, please use the following link below:
https://texas.freelegalanswers.org/Attorneys/Account/Agreement

New to Free Legal Answers? Check out the following training videos:
Instructional website video for attorneys (3.5 min)
Ethical Considerations When Providing Limited Scope Services (6 min)
How to use Plain Language When Answering Legal Questions (17 min)

In addition, you can find the volunteer training guide and other helpful materials for volunteers in the presentation files for this session.

Key Takeaways:

Participate in an exciting team competition
Learn about ABA Free Legal Answers and its impact
Discover how you can contribute to this important initiative

Don't miss this opportunity to have fun, connect with others, and make a meaningful impact through virtual legal aid!

Moderators

Mary C. Rios

Managing Attorney, Texas Legal Services Center

Texas Free Legal Answers Volunteer Guide Version 2 docx

2021 Subject Matter Resource Index 1.5 docx

TexasLawHelp Frequently Used Publications docx

Wednesday August 28, 2024 11:00am - 12:15pm CDT
Salon E

Lunch

12:30pm CDT

Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) updates the Individual Assistance Program

Wednesday August 28, 2024 12:30pm - 1:45pm CDT

Room 410

This CLE will focus on the interim final rule FEMA IA 1660-AB07; implementation date for all federal disasters declared after March 22, 2024. 44 CFR 206.101, 44 CFR 206.110 to 206.115, 44 CFR 206.117 to 206.119, 44 CFR 206.191 Updates to FEMA IA-FEMA Interim Rule 1660-AB07, rules published Overview: FEMA IA regulatory changes were made to simplify processes, remove barriers in accessing services and increase eligibility for certain types of assistance under FEMA’s programs. The potential impact for future disaster survivors is that they will have a lower administrative/procedural burden when applying for and receiving assistance, the opportunity to receive more direct cash assistance and the possibility of access to assistance that meets their unique needs. Ethics: addresses advocacy for inequities and legal needs aligning with Executive Orders on Racial Equity and Underserved Communities, Climate Crisis (13985, 13990, 14008, 14091)

Moderators

Muneeza ILAHI

Speakers

Brittanny P Gomez

Disaster Benefits Team Manager, Texas RioGrande Legal Aid

Brittanny P. Gomez is the Disaster Benefits Team Manager at Texas RioGrande Legal Aid and represents low income individuals affected by disasters. Brittanny is a Vice Director of the American Bar Association Young Lawyers Division Disaster Legal Services Team and has been recognized... Read More →

Stephanie Duke

Supervising Attorney Disaster Resilience Team, Disability Rights Texas

Stephanie Duke is currently a staff attorney at Disability Rights Texas and Equal Justice Works Disaster Resilience Program fellow. As the Protection and Advocacy agency for the state of Texas, Disability Rights Texas’ mission is to ensure individuals with disabilities know and... Read More →

Amanda Bosley

Managing Attorney - Disaster Relief Unit, Lone Star Legal Aid

Amanda Bosley is a Supervising Attorney and manages the Disaster Relief Unit at Lone Star Legal Aid (LSLA) in Houston, Texas. She also serves as Content Manager for the Advocates for Disaster Justice website, which provides legal help information to survivors and facilitates connections... Read More →

FEMA IA updates DLTF PLC2024 slide deck pdf

Wednesday August 28, 2024 12:30pm - 1:45pm CDT
Room 410

12:30pm CDT

Harvesting Media Relations To Empower Our Clients & Advance Our Causes: Navigating the Intersection of Legal Services & Media Coverage (1.00 Ethics)

Wednesday August 28, 2024 12:30pm - 1:45pm CDT

Salon E

In this panel discussion, we delve into the critical role of media relations in poverty law advocacy. From building trust with journalists to navigating the complexities of media coverage, our panelists will explore strategies for leveraging the media to benefit our clients and advance social justice causes, and ethical implications. Topics will include building trust with journalists, preparing clients for media engagement, understanding the impact of media coverage on litigation, client narratives, policy advocacy, and fundraising efforts. Learn how to harness the power of media relations to amplify the voices of those we serve and effect meaningful change in our communities. One attorney panelist shares a wealth of experience utilizing media in her consumer and housing law practice. Our communications panelist regularly addresses the needs of both clients and media.

Moderators

Marlette Dukes

Texas Legal Services Center

Speakers

Clarissa Ayala

Communications Director, Lone Star Legal Aid

Dana Karni

Litigation Director, Lone Star Legal Aid

Harvesting Media Relations To Empower Our Clients & Advance Our Causes Navigating the Intersection of Legal Services & Media Cov pdf

Social Media and Rules for Political Activities and Lobbying LSC Legal Services Corporation America's Partner for Equal Jus pdf

Opinion 683 5hQZhvv pdf

111 S.Ct. 2720 pdf

2008 WL 8947076 pdf

11 09 00050 cr pdf

LSLA General Media Release 4.2022 (1) pdf

Writing Client Narratives Guide (PLC 2024) pdf

Opinion 631 q2P3e1t pdf

Wednesday August 28, 2024 12:30pm - 1:45pm CDT
Salon E

12:30pm CDT

HHSC Administrative Appeals Process

Wednesday August 28, 2024 12:30pm - 1:45pm CDT

Room 408

The Department of Health and Human Services is an Agency that is charged with regulating and administering certain public benefits programs to eligible households such as SNAP, Medicaid, TANF-Cash help, and Long-Term Care. Access to these public benefits for eligible individuals and families can be vital to their livelihood. There are numerous households that are eligible for these public benefit programs but are either wrongfully denied or terminated erroneously. A wrongful termination or denial can have a disastrous impact on an eligible household. This presentation is designed to discuss the Texas Health and Human Services Administrative Appeals Process so that advocates understand the steps to take in assisting eligible households that have been wrongfully denied. Throughout the presentation, advocates and attendees will get an in depth understanding on how HHSC handles the adjudicative process, agency errors that necessitate appeals, expectations once an appeal is filed, and effective strategies to use in administrative appeal advocacy.

Moderators

Reginal D. Harris

President & Executive Director, Helping Warriors Succeed, Inc.

Dr. Reginal D. Harris, Esq., is passionate about helping others to achieve personal and professional success because of the challenges and struggles he has overcome in his own life.He is a Registered Pharmacist licensed to practice in the states of Texas and Florida. He also is an... Read More →

Speakers

Elizabeth Green

Staff Attorney, LSLA

Elizabeth Green is a Staff Attorney at Lone Star Legal Aid (LSLA) located in Houston, Texas. Elizabeth joined Lone Star legal Aid, which provides free legal assistance for low-income individuals dealing with civil law issues throughout the state of Texas about a year ago. Lone Star... Read More →

Adrian Garcia

Lone Star Legal Aid

Bernadette Segura

Attorney, Texas RioGrande Legal Aid

Texas HHSC Administrative Appeals Process pptx

Wednesday August 28, 2024 12:30pm - 1:45pm CDT
Room 408

12:30pm CDT

Leveraging the Pro Bono Texas Statewide Opportunity Portal for Volunteer Recruitment & Engagement

Wednesday August 28, 2024 12:30pm - 1:45pm CDT

Room 415

In this session, attendees will see a live demo of the Pro Bono Texas Statewide Opportunity Portal powered by Paladin, as well as Paladin’s no-cost tools for legal services organizations. The panelists, including representatives from Paladin and the Texas State Bar, will discuss the goals and usage of the statewide portal, and how legal services organizations can further leverage this technology to recruit and engage pro bono volunteers across the state. Finally, attendees will break into small groups to discuss their experiences with Paladin and the pro bono opportunity portal, ask questions, and share insights and best practices. The session will conclude with simple steps attendees can take to further leverage Paladin and the statewide portal.

Moderators

Adriana Dulic

Chair of Association of Corporate Counsel Pro Bono Committee, Epoch Payment Solutions

Adriana Dulic is Vice President of Regulatory Affairs at Epoch Payment Solutions, where she is responsible for development and implementation of a wide range of legal policies and compliance, including anti-money laundering, privacy, data security, e-commerce, copyrights and trademark... Read More →

Speakers

Melinda Sather

Sr. Client Experience Manager, Paladin, PBC

TXBar Paladin PLC Presentation2024 v2 pptx

Wednesday August 28, 2024 12:30pm - 1:45pm CDT
Room 415

12:30pm CDT

Poverty Law Is Immigration Law: Why Legal Aid Attorneys Should Help Clients Naturalize

Wednesday August 28, 2024 12:30pm - 1:45pm CDT

Room 406

This session will consist of a comprehensive review of the process by which immigrants can become citizens by filing an N-400 Application for Naturalization. Although this is nominally an immigration topic, the session should be of most interest to attorneys who regularly interact with noncitizen clients as part of their practice, but who do not specialize in immigration law. Attendees will leave the session with a better understanding of the obstacles that individuals, including US military veterans, in low-income households face in seeking to become citizens and how such obstacles frequently overlap with other areas of poverty law.

Speakers

Chris Rogers

Equal Justice Works Fellow and Staff Attorney, Texas RioGrande Legal Aid

Thera McAvoy

Attorney, Texas RioGrande Legal Aid

PLC Training Poverty Law is Immigration Law (Rev 1) pptx

Wednesday August 28, 2024 12:30pm - 1:45pm CDT
Room 406

12:30pm CDT

“Sometimes Our Clients DO Have Stuff: Creative Property Settlements in Divorce.”

Wednesday August 28, 2024 12:30pm - 1:45pm CDT

Room 412

Many legal aid attorneys have little experience with dividing property. This session will cover the basics of community and separate property, and then move on to dividing real property, vehicles, retirement accounts and small businesses. Learn solutions to help your client be in the best position to thrive post-divorce.

Moderators

Fallon Hamilton Vaughn

Speakers

Melanie Morgan

Staff Attorney, LANWT

Ms. Morgan is a staff attorney specializing in Family Law. She works in the McKinney office of Legal Aid of NorthWest Texas, and litigates cases in Collin, Grayson, Fannin, Rockwall and Hunt Counties. She is also an adjunct professor at Collin College, teaching Family Law in their... Read More →

Sometimes Our Clients DO Have Stuff pptx

Wednesday August 28, 2024 12:30pm - 1:45pm CDT
Room 412

2:00pm CDT

A Prescription for Good Health: Legal Services as Medicine

Wednesday August 28, 2024 2:00pm - 3:15pm CDT

Room 408

New Texas law HB 1575 (2023) and policy guidance creates opportunities for legal service and healthcare providers to partner to provide a more comprehensive level of care for individuals by diagnosing and addressing unmet social needs and health harming legal needs.

Speakers

Reginal D. Harris

President & Executive Director, Helping Warriors Succeed, Inc.

Gerardo "Jerry" Loza

South Texas College of Law Houston

Jessica Trevino

Medical Legal Partnership Staff Attorney, Greater Waco Legal Services

Final MLP Presentation Slides pptx

Wednesday August 28, 2024 2:00pm - 3:15pm CDT
Room 408

2:00pm CDT

Long-Term Care Coverage in Texas: The Myths, the Options, and the Cold Hard Truth(.25 Ethics)

Wednesday August 28, 2024 2:00pm - 3:15pm CDT

Room 410

This will be an interactive discussion of long-term care in Texas, including different options for long-term care and how to help your clients get the help they need! It's difficult to help get our clients long-term care due to limitations in state and Federal law. This session will help you to determine what options are best for your client and how to help them meet the income and resource limitations imposed on them. This will include discussions of Transfer on Death Deeds and Qualified Income Trusts, as well as how to protect a community spouse's income and resources.

Moderators

Muneeza ILAHI

Speakers

Sara Espahbodi

Staff Attorney, TLSC

PLCLTC pptx

Wednesday August 28, 2024 2:00pm - 3:15pm CDT
Room 410

2:00pm CDT

Managing Case Pressures & Secondary Trauma (1.00 Ethics)

Wednesday August 28, 2024 2:00pm - 3:15pm CDT

Salon E

Attorneys serving the poor and disenfranchised must manage high conflict cases compounded with high case loads, limited resources, and unrealistic client demands. These factors can lead to secondary trauma, case management problems, and ethical problems. The session will explore the causes of secondary trauma and burnout while developing strategies that improve case outcomes and management. Participants will engage with each other, leave with a list of resources, best practices, and sample forms.

Moderators

Marlette Dukes

Texas Legal Services Center

Speakers

Matthew Wright

Judge / Attorney, Diaz & Wright, PLLC

DW PBono Stress pptx

Wednesday August 28, 2024 2:00pm - 3:15pm CDT
Salon E

2:00pm CDT

Representing Clients Who Use(d) Drugs: Lessons from the Harm Reduction Revolution

Wednesday August 28, 2024 2:00pm - 3:15pm CDT

Room 412

Harm reduction provides a framework for understanding the complex needs of individuals with substance use disorders. Harm reduction offers valuable insights and strategies for legal aid attorneys to better serve clients with substance use disorders. By embracing the principles of harm reduction, attorneys can provide more compassionate, effective, and equitable legal representation. This session aims to enhance legal providers’ understanding of substance use disorders impacting indigent Texans and their families. We will highlight how harm reductionists prioritize meeting clients where they are, fostering empathy and trust to better support them through legal challenges. Attendees will also learn about the importance of partnerships and collaboration in harm reduction initiatives, and how legal aid attorneys can leverage these relationships to provide comprehensive support to clients.

Moderators

Fallon Hamilton Vaughn

Speakers

Maggie Luna

Texas Harm Reduction Alliance

Sophie Primeaux

Attorney, Texas RioGrande Legal Aid

Sophie Primeaux is a staff attorney with TRLA's Opioid Use Disorder Legal Support Project and is based in the Austin office. A recent graduate of the University of Texas School of Law, Sophie has a background in indigent criminal defense, particularly juvenile defense, gained during... Read More →

Representing Clients Who Use Drugs Slides pdf

Legal Advocacy to Protect Health Care Access for People Who Use Drugs pdf

understanding the basics of addiction judicial task force pdf

SAMHSA overdose prevention & response toolkit pdf

Safe(r) Drug Use National Harm Redux Coalition pdf

Harm Reduction Basics Undoing Stigma pdf

DOJ OUD and ADA pdf

Attorneys Guide to Addiction Medication & Your Client pdf

LAC Emergency Report Right to Addiction Care for SUD in EDs pdf

Know Your Rights to Addiction Care for Drug & Alcohol Related Emergencies pdf

Naloxone DrugFacts National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) pdf

Pregnancy and Substance Use A Harm Reduction Toolkit pdf

Myth Fact for MAT pdf

Cases involving denial of access to MOUD pdf

Language Matters pdf

fentanyl factsheet pdf

heroin factsheet pdf

methamphetamine factsheet pdf

xylazine factsheet pdf

cocaine factsheet pdf

OverdoseBystanderLaw ENG ESP pdf

LSC Report Strengthening the Role of Civil Legal Aid in Responding to the Opioid Epidemic pdf

Impact of SUD on Families and Children Theory to Practice pdf

Wednesday August 28, 2024 2:00pm - 3:15pm CDT
Room 412

2:00pm CDT

SHARS Update: Policy Issues & Advocacy Strategies

Wednesday August 28, 2024 2:00pm - 3:15pm CDT

Room 415

SHARS (school health and related services) is a state program that provides reimbursement to public schools through Medicaid for health-related services provided to students with disabilities. After a federal audit of the program that found Texas schools to be overbilling Medicaid, schools are expecting major losses in special education funding. This session will provide an overview of the SHARS program, explain the financial challenges that schools are now facing and their impact on special education students, and provide practical advocacy tips to ensure students continue to receive necessary health-related services at school.

Moderators

Adriana Dulic

Chair of Association of Corporate Counsel Pro Bono Committee, Epoch Payment Solutions

Speakers

Steven Aleman

Policy Specialist, Disability Rights Texas

Tabitha Dwyer

Legal Fellow, Disability Rights Texas

SHARS Update PPT pptx

Wednesday August 28, 2024 2:00pm - 3:15pm CDT
Room 415

2:00pm CDT

Using AI Ethically in Practice (1.25 Ethics)

Wednesday August 28, 2024 2:00pm - 3:15pm CDT

Room 406

This session will discuss how, when, and why lawyers can use AI in practice. It will look at different tools available to users (free and paid) and how AI can add value to their practice. We’ll provide an intro to various AI tools, terms, and use cases. We’ll discuss the ethical implications of using AI and how to incorporate it responsibly. We’ll also discuss some places where we see AI being a valuable and safe tool in the future for legal work.

Speakers

Martha Beard-Duncan

Managing Attorney, TexasLawHelp (TLSC)

Aaron Varner

Co-Managing Attorney, TLSC

Aaron Varner is a staff attorney in Texas Legal Services Center’s Self Represented Litigants Program, which administers TexasLawHelp.org. He has a Master of Public Affairs degree from the University of Wisconsin, where he focused on tech policy, and he received his JD from Chicago-Kent... Read More →

Michael Hofrichter

LegalServer

TexasLawHelp Legal Content Style Guide 4th Edition AI Policy pdf

Ethics AI PLC 2024 PPT Slides Consolidated Final pptx

Wednesday August 28, 2024 2:00pm - 3:15pm CDT
Room 406

3:30pm CDT

Dealing with SSA Delays

Wednesday August 28, 2024 3:30pm - 4:45pm CDT

Room 410

Post-COVID, the Social Security Administration continues to struggle with delays in processing applications for overpayment waivers and other relief. Hear a seasoned paralegal’s best boots-on-the-ground strategies for breaking through the logjam. When is federal court intervention an option, and how does that work? We will discuss federal mandamus jurisdiction, and how it can help in certain cases.

Moderators

Muneeza ILAHI

Speakers

Gloretta Thornton

Paralegal Supervisor, Lone Star Legal Aid

I have been with Lone Star Legal Aid for 44 years and I have been in the Public Benefits Unit in the Houston office all of that time. I truly enjoy helping people and my work with LSLA allows me to do that. I am the mother of 2, the grandmother of 4, and the great grandmother... Read More →

Heather Keegan

Director of Litigation, Lone Star Legal Aid

DEALING WITH SSA DELAYS slides pptx

Mandamus Original Complaint Redacted pdf

Wednesday August 28, 2024 3:30pm - 4:45pm CDT
Room 410

3:30pm CDT

How To Build a Pro Bono Program from the Ground UP

Wednesday August 28, 2024 3:30pm - 4:45pm CDT

Room 415

In July 2015, DRTx began its pro bono program by hiring attorney Cicely Reid to be the program coordinator. To date - DRTx has engaged with hundreds of volunteer lawyers across Texas, secured thousands of hours of direct representation, and raised over $200,000 in in kind donations. The DRTx pro bono coordinator will present on how to build a successful pro bono program. Participants will leave with a practical guide and effective tools that they can immediately deploy to establish and build out their own pro bono programs. This session will cover not only what to do – but also what to avoid in order to foster growth and development of a pro bono program and sustain growth over time.

Moderators

Adriana Dulic

Chair of Association of Corporate Counsel Pro Bono Committee, Epoch Payment Solutions

Speakers

Reid, Cicely

Pro Bono Coordinator and Staff Attorney, Disability Rights Texas

Disability Rights Texas (DRTx) is the federally designated legal protection and advocacy agency (P&A) for people with disabilities in Texas. DRTx’s mission is to help people with disabilities understand and exercise their rights under the law and secure their full and equal participation... Read More →

How to build a PBP 082024 cr pptx

Wednesday August 28, 2024 3:30pm - 4:45pm CDT
Room 415

3:30pm CDT

I Didn’t Know You Could Do That (in Texas)!

Wednesday August 28, 2024 3:30pm - 4:45pm CDT

Room 412

Name and Gender Marker Corrections (NGMC) can be done in Texas! This session will discuss the legal processes for obtaining an NGMC in Texas and the (lack of) legal bases for doing so. Participants will receive an overview of the terminology used to describe gender identity and diversity and the challenges this community faces. Based on the efficient partnership between Texas RioGrande Legal Aid and St. Mary’s University School of Law, participants will learn how to successfully use the clinic model and implement it within their own communities. Participants will also become familiar with special circumstances impacting clients needing an NGMC and how to navigate these issues given the current political and social climate regarding trans and gender non-conforming people.

Moderators

Fallon Hamilton Vaughn

Speakers

Gabriel Sanchez

Special Project Director, Texas RioGrande Legal Aid

Gabriel Sanchez is an outreach coordinator and community educator with Texas Rio Grande Legal Aid. Their outreach work includes providing know your rights presentations and other services for communities including the LGBTQIA+ community, adults with developmental challenges, and the... Read More →

Stephanie Harlien

Director of Pro Bono Programs, St. Mary's University School of Law Center for Legal and Social Justice

Stephanie Harlien serves as Director of Pro Bono Programs at the St. Mary’s University School of Law’s Center for Legal and Social Justice. She is a first-generation college graduate from Corpus Christi, Texas, a St. Mary’s Law alumna, and has demonstrated a passion for public... Read More →

2024.08 PLC NGMC pdf

2024.08 PLC NGMC Updated pdf

Wednesday August 28, 2024 3:30pm - 4:45pm CDT
Room 412

3:30pm CDT

Landlords without Land (0.50 ethics)

Wednesday August 28, 2024 3:30pm - 4:45pm CDT

Room 406

We know that tenants, by definition, do not own the land on which they live. But what happens when a landlord who sues for eviction does not own the land, either? This session will cover the ongoing practice of plaintiffs bringing eviction lawsuits when they lack standing to do so: specifically, when they do not own the subject property. This presentation will draw upon the St. Mary's Law Housing Rights Project's experiences in Bexar County where plaintiffs lack ownership interests. This interactive presentation will identify common jurisdictional and standing issues. It will suggest practices for jurisdictional research and pleadings. Finally, this presentation will cover strategic considerations when considering standing arguments in eviction suits.

Speakers

Gregory Michael Zlotnick

Director of Pro Bono Programs, St. Mary's University School of Law - Center for Legal and Social Justice

Jacqueline Calvert

St. Mary's University School of Law

PLC 2024 LWL StMU pptx

StMU PLC CKLST pdf

Wednesday August 28, 2024 3:30pm - 4:45pm CDT
Room 406

3:30pm CDT

The Texas Public Information Act: Strategies & Hurdles of a Critical Community Lawyering Tool

Wednesday August 28, 2024 3:30pm - 4:45pm CDT

Room 408

This presentation will overview the Texas Public Information Act as a critical community lawyering tool, focusing primarily on usage in environmental justice cases. The first part of this session will summarize how the lawyers can use the public information act from drafting the initial PIA request to filing a petition in state court to force the release of information. Ironically as state agencies and local governments rely more on digital files, accessing public information has become more difficult as governmental bodies charge high fees, seek repetitive clarifications that delay access, and interpret certain statutory provisions too narrowly to keep public information private. The session will also present strategies to overcome these hurdles. The second half of the session will include a panel discussion about live examples of recent community lawyering disputes with the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality and various cities. The session concludes with an audience participation discussion.

Moderators

Reginal D. Harris

President & Executive Director, Helping Warriors Succeed, Inc.

Speakers

Michael Bates

Legal Aid of NorthWest Texas

Adam Pirtle

Staff Attorney, Legal Aid of NorthWest Texas

Wendi Hammond

LANWT

Texas Public Information Act PLC 2024 pptx

Example TPIA Request pdf

Wednesday August 28, 2024 3:30pm - 4:45pm CDT
Room 408

3:30pm CDT

Transforming JP Courts into Hubs for Holistic Services

Wednesday August 28, 2024 3:30pm - 4:45pm CDT

Salon E

JP Courts are a place where people must go to resolve a variety of legal issues. Why not use the opportunity to connect litigants with additional help and services? Judge Steve Duble and Beacon Law will discuss eviction diversion, record sealing, and other programs to engage high need individuals. The presentation will include sharing ideas on how to connect with non-profit organizations, build community partnerships, and connect litigants in JP Court with needed services.

Moderators

Marlette Dukes

Texas Legal Services Center

Speakers

Judge Steven Duble

Justice of the Peace, Harris County Justice of the Peace Precinct 1-2

Steven Duble is Justice of the Peace for Precinct 1, Place 2 in Harris County, Texas. He was elected in November 2022 and took office January 2023. He earned his undergraduate degree from Texas Christian University in 1986 and his law degree from the University of Houston Law Center... Read More →

Stephanie R. Marrone

Managing Attorney & Pro Bono Coordinator, Beacon Law

Justin Thompson

Program Director / Attorney, Beacon Law

2024 PLC Presentation Draft Final pptx

Wednesday August 28, 2024 3:30pm - 4:45pm CDT
Salon E

5:00pm CDT

CREJ TF

Wednesday August 28, 2024 5:00pm - 6:00pm CDT

Salon E

TF Committee Sign-Up: https://forms.gle/CYBA1y2NyMdg2BPR8

Speakers

Ana Laurel

Attorney, Texas RioGrande Legal Aid

Ana Laurel is a Valley-based attorney at Texas RioGrande Legal Aid, Inc. where she works on disaster recovery, housing, and legal research related to drainage in the RGV. Ana recently completed an Equal Justice Works’ (EJW) Disaster Recovery Legal Corps Fellowship. Ana holds a J.D... Read More →

Chase Porter

Attorney, Lone Star Legal Aid

Chase Porter is an Equal Justice Works Fellow with Lone Star Legal Aid in Houston, Texas. Chase works within Lone Star Legal Aidâ€™s Equitable Development Initiative and is focused on community development and furthering economic and environmental justice

Haley Varnadoe

Staff Attorney, Legal Aid of NorthWest Texas

Haley is a staff attorney with the Community Revitalization Project at Legal Aid of NorthWest Texas. She focuses on environmental justice in the DFW area and beyond, using community lawyering as a tool to empower client communities in their fights for clean air and neighborhoods safe... Read More →

Wednesday August 28, 2024 5:00pm - 6:00pm CDT
Salon E

Section / Task Force Meeting

5:00pm CDT

Disaster Law Task Force Meeting

Wednesday August 28, 2024 5:00pm - 6:00pm CDT

Room 408

TF Committee Sign-Up: https://forms.gle/CYBA1y2NyMdg2BPR8

Speakers

Stephanie Duke

Supervising Attorney Disaster Resilience Team, Disability Rights Texas

Wednesday August 28, 2024 5:00pm - 6:00pm CDT
Room 408

Section / Task Force Meeting

5:00pm CDT

Education & Juvenile Justice Task Force Meeting

Wednesday August 28, 2024 5:00pm - 6:00pm CDT

Room 406

TF Committee Sign-Up: https://forms.gle/CYBA1y2NyMdg2BPR8

Speakers

Melissa Arano

Staff Attorney, LANWT

Wednesday August 28, 2024 5:00pm - 6:00pm CDT
Room 406

Section / Task Force Meeting

5:00pm CDT

Employment Law Task Force Meeting

Wednesday August 28, 2024 5:00pm - 6:00pm CDT

Room 415

This Task Force will be meeting will be hybrid- https://trla-org.zoom.us/j/86140455374

TF Committee Sign-Up: https://forms.gle/CYBA1y2NyMdg2BPR8

Speakers

Sidonia Mitchell

Staff Attorney, TRLA

Fabiola Flores

Attorney, Texas RioGrande Legal Aid

Wednesday August 28, 2024 5:00pm - 6:00pm CDT
Room 415

Section / Task Force Meeting

5:00pm CDT

Family Law Task Force Meeting

Wednesday August 28, 2024 5:00pm - 6:00pm CDT

Room 410

Speakers

Jacquelyn Davis

TRLA

Christofer R. Tracy

Supervising Attorney, Legal Aid of NorthWest Texas

Wednesday August 28, 2024 5:00pm - 6:00pm CDT
Room 410

Section / Task Force Meeting

5:00pm CDT

Housing/Consumer Law TF Meeting

Wednesday August 28, 2024 5:00pm - 6:00pm CDT

Salon D

TF Committee Sign-Up: https://forms.gle/CYBA1y2NyMdg2BPR8

Speakers

Leesa Everitt

Staff Attorney, Lone Star Legal Aid

Leesa Everitt, a native Houstonian, is a staff attorney at Lone Star Legal Aid in the Housing & Consumer Unit. Over the past decade she has handled a variety of civil legal matters, but her focus has been housing and landlord-tenant work. Her law degree is from the University of Houston... Read More →

Wednesday August 28, 2024 5:00pm - 6:00pm CDT
Salon D

Section / Task Force Meeting

5:00pm CDT

Public Health & Benefits Task Force Meeting

Wednesday August 28, 2024 5:00pm - 6:00pm CDT

Room 412

TF Committee Sign-Up: https://forms.gle/CYBA1y2NyMdg2BPR8

Speakers

Michael Shippey

Attorney, Texas RioGrande Legal Aid

Wednesday August 28, 2024 5:00pm - 6:00pm CDT
Room 412

Section / Task Force Meeting

8:30am CDT

Building & Maintaining a Referral Portal - a Journey to Sustainable Collaboration

Thursday August 29, 2024 8:30am - 9:45am CDT

Room 410

Many have thought about how to improve the way we refer applicants to services. The session will cover the practical considerations of the planning, creation, and use of an online referral portal for legal and non-legal providers through one portal. The session will highlight the statewide Texas Crime Victim Legal Assistance Network (TCVLAN) portal and how it connects people in need of social services to legal and non-legal services, partner tools and use of the system, and referral tools.

Moderators

Sara Fix

Texas Legal Services Center

Speakers

Sonia Lopez

Director of Innovation, Lone Star Legal Aid

Jessica Alas

Supervising Attorney, Crime Victims Unit, Lone Star Legal Aid

Jessica Alas has been an attorney with Lone Star Legal Aid in Houston, Texas, since 2009, and is currently a Supervising Attorney managing the Crime Victims Unit. She also serves as the Project Manager for the Texas Crime Victim Legal Assistance Network. Prior to joining Lone Star... Read More →

Camarillo, Jocellyn

A Lone Star Legal Aid

PLC 2024 8.29.24 Sustainable Collaboration pdf

Thursday August 29, 2024 8:30am - 9:45am CDT
Room 410

8:30am CDT

Disaster Law 101

Thursday August 29, 2024 8:30am - 9:45am CDT

Salon E

The basics of disaster law beginning with what is required under the Stafford Act for a federal declaration,, preliminary damage assessments, other local resources being overwhelmed by those seeking assistance, and types of disaster declarations; how disaster declarations impact what options are available to disaster survivors; ; the process individuals must follow to receive assistance from organizations such as U.S. Small Business Association and Federal Emergency Management Agency; and some of the common legal issues seen in the wake of disasters. This presentation would also include discussion about some of the special circumstances that need to be considered when working with those who have gone through a traumatic experience such as a lot of natural disasters.

Moderators

Tori Freeman

Project Coordinator, State Bar Of Texas - LAD

Speakers

Cornelia Alvarez

Supervising Attorney, Legal Aid of NorthWest Texas

Cornelia Alvarez is a Supervising Attorney with Legal Aid of NorthWest Texas (LANWT) in Abilene. Cornelia graduated with a J.D. from Vermont Law School with a certificate of international law and studies. Cornelia has been with LANWT since September 2016. First as a staff attorney... Read More →

Melissa Waggoner

Staff Attorney, LANWT

Disaster Law 101 pptx

Thursday August 29, 2024 8:30am - 9:45am CDT
Salon E

8:30am CDT

Erasing an Ugly Legacy: New Opportunities to Remove Racially Restrictive Covenants from Deed Restrictions

Thursday August 29, 2024 8:30am - 9:45am CDT

Room 408

a. This session will cover (i) a brief history of deed restrictions and racially restrictive covenants, (ii) how to look up deed restrictions for your property (iii) how Texas legislators have attempted to fix the issue of removing racially restrictive covenants from deed restrictions in the real property records (iv) the removal process under Texas Property Code Section 5.026(a), difficulties, and successes.

Speakers

Reginal D. Harris

President & Executive Director, Helping Warriors Succeed, Inc.

Amy Dinn

Litigation Director / Managing Attorney, Lone Star Legal Aid

Environmental JusticeCivil Rights Litigation

Noor Mozaffar

LSLA

Salceda, Samantha

Paralegal, Lone Star Legal Aid

SB 30 2021 Texas Eighty Seventh Legislature Law pdf

SB 30 Examples Amended Deed Restriction pdf

SB 30 Examples Deed Restrictions After Image PNG

SB 30 Examples Deed Restrictions Before Image PNG

SB 30 Examples Filed Motion PDF

SB 30 Examples Signed Order PDF

SB 30 Harris County Cases (2021 to 8 1 2024) pdf

SB 30 Racial Covenant Flier FINAL with Template Forms pdf

SB 30 Template Form Affidavit docx

SB 30 Template Form Motion docx

SB 30 Template Form Proposed FOF & COL docx

SB 30 Timeline Notice, Colorful pdf

SB 30 TX Prop 5.0261 Removal of Discriminatory Provision from Recorded Conveyance Instrument pdf

Article Indignity Perpetuated Race Based Housing Post Reconstruction to the Fair Housing Act's Impact on the Digital Age Wh pdf

PLC 2024 Presentation Erasing an Ugly Legacy New Opportunities to Remove Racially Restrictive Covenants from Deed Restrictions pptx

Thursday August 29, 2024 8:30am - 9:45am CDT
Room 408

8:30am CDT

Exploring Strategies To Use AI & Other Advocacy Tools To Deliver Holistic Legal Services to Marginalized Immigrant Communities (.50 Ethics)

Thursday August 29, 2024 8:30am - 9:45am CDT

Room 412

The panelists have extensive experience in providing free legal services to non-English speaking immigrant and refugee populations. The panelists will share insights on overcoming barriers and logistical challenges of working with diverse immigrant and refugee communities. In addition, the panelists will discuss challenges of recruiting, training and supporting pro bono attorneys who are not accustomed to using interpreters and working with immigrant communities. Attendees will gain valuable perspectives of how to overcome language and cultural barriers by engaging in client-centered interviewing and advocacy techniques. For practitioners and organizations using a pro bono model, the panelists will discuss current strategies to recruit, support and retain pro bono attorneys to provide legal services to low-income non-English speaking clients. Attendees will engage in hands-on exercises and discussion sessions to explore best practices in using professional interpreters, AI assisted language justice tools, and non-licensed interpreters, e.g. office paralegals or administrative staff. In addition, panelists will discuss ways to equip pro bono attorneys with basic skills and knowledge to bridge cultural and technological divides that frequently impede effective communication and legal service delivery.

Speakers

Anne Chandler

Executive Director, Texas Immigration Law Council

Cristian Sanchez

Economic Justice Director, Texas Immigration Law Council

Texas Immigration Law Council Awarded Groundbreaking Grant to Help Immigrants Access Economic Justice ⋆ Texas Immigration Law Council (txilc.org)... Read More →

Elizabeth Tran

Legal Services Director, Houston Volunteer Lawyers

Exploring Strategies to Use AI & Other Advocacy Tolls pptx

Thursday August 29, 2024 8:30am - 9:45am CDT
Room 412

8:30am CDT

I Have Over $10,000 in Traffic Fines & Fees. Please Help!

Thursday August 29, 2024 8:30am - 9:45am CDT

Room 415

Low-income clients regularly have to make decisions about how to allocate their limited resources. When it comes to paying a ticket for a busted taillight or keeping the electricity on, it's understandable that these tickets and their ensuing fines can linger for years. Having a Texas driver license is essential for clients to obtain new or better jobs, so it's important for legal aid advocates to be able to assess and represent clients in these matters. When advocating for your clients, you need to know the options available to resolve outstanding Class C misdemeanors. Presenters will discuss how to help clients resolve outstanding traffic matters and minimize the collateral consequences of convictions.

Moderators

Fallon Hamilton Vaughn

Speakers

Evelyn Garcia Lopez

Beacon Law

Samuel Marsh

Beacon Law

Francis, Abbiegail

Beacon Law

PLC Presentation 2024 CCMs pptx

DL Eligibility Example pdf

FTA Example pdf

Thursday August 29, 2024 8:30am - 9:45am CDT
Room 415

8:30am CDT

Movement Lawyering for Education Justice: How Attorneys, Law Firms, & Communities Can Support Students & Families in Turbulent Times

Thursday August 29, 2024 8:30am - 9:45am CDT

Room 406

Movement lawyering describes a model of public interest practice where legal professionals use the law to win change impacting the material conditions of individuals and communities directly impacted by injustice. IDRA uses a movement law approach to democratize legal information and tools, making them accessible to youth, families, and communities seeking education justice in public schools. Because youth legal rights in education often “spoil” quickly, serious harms can occur with limited windows for redress. And because there is little pecuniary incentive for attorneys to get involved in school-level proceedings, youth and families are often left to navigate education law systems alone. In this session, participants will learn how attorneys, law firms, and community advocates can support students and families seeking education justice.

Moderators

Kent McKeever

Managing Attorney Partner, Greater Waco Legal Services

Speakers

Duggins-Clay, Paige

Chief Legal Analyst, IDRA (Intercultural Development Research Association)

Paige Duggins-Clay, J.D., is IDRA’s Chief Legal Analyst. She coordinates IDRA’s legal research and strategy, expert testimony, and amicus curiae advocacy to elevate the voices of students and coalition partners. Her work builds on IDRA’s over 50-year legacy of support to... Read More →

PLC Movement Lawyering for Education Justice (Aug. 2024) pdf

Thursday August 29, 2024 8:30am - 9:45am CDT
Room 406

10:00am CDT

An Overview from the Front Lines of Military Discharge Upgrades & Character of Discharge Determinations

Thursday August 29, 2024 10:00am - 11:15am CDT

Room 408

This session will examine discharge upgrades and character of discharge determinations (“CODD”), providing attendees with a comprehensive understanding of the processes, criteria, and legal nuances involved. We will explore the impact of these determinations on veterans’ benefits and post-service life.

Speakers

Reginal D. Harris

President & Executive Director, Helping Warriors Succeed, Inc.

Allen Martin

Equal Justice Works Fellow Staff Attorney, Texas Legal Services Center

Honor, Julian

Center for Legal and Social Justice

Rush Evans

Texas Legal Services Center

Hagel Memo pdf

Kurta Memo pdf

Wilkie Memo pdf

DD 149, Application for Correction of Military Record pdf

DD 293, Application for the Review of Discharge from the Armed Forces of the United States pdf

Discharge Upgrade Poverty Law Conference FINAL pptx

Thursday August 29, 2024 10:00am - 11:15am CDT
Room 408

10:00am CDT

HHSC Medicaid Programs

Thursday August 29, 2024 10:00am - 11:15am CDT

Room 412

In-depth look into the different Medicaid Programs that are available from HHSC including but not limited to Children's Medicaid, Pregnant Women's Medicaid, and TANF Medicaid. We will discuss the eligibility requirements, policy changes, and any related issues that have recently come up with the programs.

Speakers

Christian Pineda

Project Coordinator, Lone Star Legal Aid

Gloretta Thornton

Paralegal Supervisor, Lone Star Legal Aid

TEXAS PLC HHSC Medicaid Programs pptx

Thursday August 29, 2024 10:00am - 11:15am CDT
Room 412

10:00am CDT

How it Began, How it is Going, Where We Hope To Go: Student Loan Adversaries in Bankruptcy

Thursday August 29, 2024 10:00am - 11:15am CDT

Room 410

Join Amy Allen and Samantha Kehl, seasoned legal aid attorneys, as they dive into the evolving world of student loan discharge in bankruptcy. Building on their popular session from last year, this presentation will decode the 2022 Department of Education guidance and showcase its real-world impact through compelling case studies.

Highlights include:
- A comprehensive breakdown of the new attestation standard and its "Infinity Stones" - powerful presumptions supporting discharge
- An in-depth analysis of "The Curious Case of Owen A. Lott," demonstrating the journey from intake to successful discharge
- Practical strategies for assembling your legal "Infinity Gauntlet" to combat student loan debt
- Insights into regional variations, ethical considerations, and future trends in student loan bankruptcy cases

Packed with superhero analogies and real-life examples, this session offers both novice and experienced attorneys the tools they need to become "Avengers" in the fight against crushing student loan debt. Attendees will leave equipped with a 100-page toolkit and actionable strategies to help clients achieve financial freedom.

Whether you're new to student loan adversaries or looking to level up your practice, this dynamic and interactive session promises to be both informative and entertaining. Join us to learn how legal aid attorneys can assemble to shape the future of student loan discharge in bankruptcy!

Moderators

Sara Fix

Texas Legal Services Center

Speakers

Amy Allen

Supervising Attorney, LANWT

Amy Allen has been licensed since 1991 and is the Supervising Attorney for Housing, Consumer, and Public Benefits at the Fort Worth Office of Legal Aid of NorthWest Texas. She is a proud graduate of LSU and Bates School of Law at the University of Houston. Her primary areas of practice... Read More →

Samantha Kehl

Staff Attorney, Legal Aid of Northwest Texas

Samantha Kehl: Bankruptcy Attorney by Day, Chaos Wrangler by NightWhen she's not untangling the complexities of bankruptcy law as a Staff Attorney and Bankruptcy Practice Team Leader at Legal Aid of NorthWest Texas (LANWT), Samantha Kehl can be found negotiating peace treaties between... Read More →

Student Loans in BK Materials 2024 pdf

Student Loan Presentation Pov Law 2024 pptx

Thursday August 29, 2024 10:00am - 11:15am CDT
Room 410

10:00am CDT

Make It Go Away

Thursday August 29, 2024 10:00am - 11:15am CDT

Room 406

A criminal record can be a bar to helping people to climb out of poverty. It potentially effects their ability to get a job, or promote within their job; housing; public benefits; community volunteer such as little league or cheer coach or volunteer at their child’s school and field trips; and more. I would like to present “Make it Go Away”: The ins and outs, qualifications, practice and rules regarding expunctions and nondisclosures. I’ve got it down to a one hour CLE, with a short quiz at the end and room for question/answer. Attached are Powerpoint designed for Attorneys, some printed collaterals how we market this Project and checklists to collect the information necessary to prepare a Petition. I will also provide a blank sample Petition and Order for a more practical application.

Moderators

Kent McKeever

Managing Attorney Partner, Greater Waco Legal Services

Speakers

Tiffany Green

Managing Attorney, Legal Aid of Northwest Texas

Tiffany Green is the managing attorney for the McKinney office of Legal Aid of NorthWest Texas. She practices primarily in the areas of housing, probate, and barrier removal. Prior to joining LANWT Tiffany served as an Assistant District Attorney for Collin County for over nine... Read More →

I 1 Expunction Checklist docx

II 1 Nondisclosure Checklist docx

Expunction Petition and Order blank doc

Make It Go Away 2024 PLC CLE Tiffany Green pptx

Thursday August 29, 2024 10:00am - 11:15am CDT
Room 406

10:00am CDT

Making an Impact in a Losing Situation: How We Utilize Social Workers To Help Those Facing Housing Instability

Thursday August 29, 2024 10:00am - 11:15am CDT

Salon E

This session will explain how our team of social workers collaborate with our staff attorneys to provide social work and legal services to tenants and homeowners to preserve homes and provide housing stability.

Moderators

Tori Freeman

Project Coordinator, State Bar Of Texas - LAD

Speakers

K'Lisha Rutledge

Managing Attorney - Home Preservation Project, Legal Aid of NorthWest Texas

Amberger, Joseph

Legal Aid of NorthWest Texas

Jennifer Santiago

Paralegal, A Legal Aid Of NorthWest Texas

Adayiah Benson

Social Worker, A Legal Aid Of NorthWest Texas

Making an Impact in a Losing Situation How we Utilize Social Workers to Help Those Facing Housing Instability pptx

Thursday August 29, 2024 10:00am - 11:15am CDT
Salon E

10:00am CDT

Planning for the Future: Supporting Families of & Youths with Special Needs

Thursday August 29, 2024 10:00am - 11:15am CDT

Room 415

This session will address different options that may be available to families of and youths with special needs. Topics covered will include supportive decision making agreements, guardianships, and transition planning in IEPs.

Moderators

Fallon Hamilton Vaughn

Speakers

Melissa Arano

Staff Attorney, LANWT

Planning for the Future pptx

Thursday August 29, 2024 10:00am - 11:15am CDT
Room 415

11:30am CDT

Keynote Luncheon, featuring Nikole Nelson

Thursday August 29, 2024 11:30am - 1:00pm CDT

Ballroom

April Faith-Slaker
Introduction of State Bar of Texas Executive Director Trey Apffel

Trey Apffel
State Bar of Texas Updates and Announcements; Introduction of Keynote Speaker Nikole Nelson

E.A. “Trey” Apffel III became executive director of the State Bar of Texas in December 2017. A longtime Galveston County trial lawyer, he previously was the owner and principal of the Apffel Law Firm in League City, where he focused on personal injury litigation, toxic torts, medical malpractice, and family law. He is certified in both civil trial law and personal injury trial law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. Apffel has served as State Bar of Texas president (2014-2015), on the State Bar Board of Directors, and as a member of the board’s Executive Committee. He is a former member of the Commission for Lawyer Discipline, a member of the Texas Bar College, a Texas Bar Foundation Life Fellow, and served on the Texas Bar Foundation Board of Trustees.

Nikole Nelson
Keynote Address

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, people-centered justice models and to expand the scope of who can provide legal help, including the groundbreaking launch of Partnering for Native Health, a medical-legal Partnership involving non-lawyer justice workers that won the 2019 World Justice Challenge. She also spearheaded reforming restrictions on unauthorized practice of law for justice workers in Alaska—these reforms were approved in 2022 by both the Alaska Supreme Court and State Bar Board of Governors. Nikole is a member of the American Bar Association’s Standing Committee on Legal Aid and Indigent Defense (SCLAID) and is a member of the Legal Services Corporation’s Rural Justice Task Force.

Speakers

April Faith-Slaker

Legal Access Department Director, SBOT

Trey Apffel

Executive Director, SBOT

Nikole Nelson

CEO, Frontline Justice

Community Justice Workers

Texas Poverty Law Conference pptx

Thursday August 29, 2024 11:30am - 1:00pm CDT
Ballroom

Lunch

1:15pm CDT

Disaster Lawyering 4.0

Thursday August 29, 2024 1:15pm - 2:30pm CDT

Room 412

We will address the realities of climate injustice, public health emergencies, man-made disasters, natural disasters and the consequential necessitation of the increased need for access to justice and legal resources. Community lawyering and collaborations are key to building resilient communities and facilitating internal and external relationships with public and private partners alike, all of which foster empowerment and autonomy to create equitable opportunities for the public. Legal aids will always have a lack of resources to support the communities we serve. We can be proactive in our disaster preparedness efforts and more effective with our avenues of advocacy to mitigate the inequities disaster survivors experience. We will provide some insight, experiences and real-world application in planning, structural organization disaster lawyering.

Speakers

Stephanie Duke

Supervising Attorney Disaster Resilience Team, Disability Rights Texas

Sean Jackson

Executive Director, Disability Rights Texas

Thursday August 29, 2024 1:15pm - 2:30pm CDT
Room 412

1:15pm CDT

Heirs’ Property Homeowners: Pathways and Pitfalls to Achieving Housing Stability (.25 Ethics)

Thursday August 29, 2024 1:15pm - 2:30pm CDT

Room 410

Build out your toolkit for helping heirs’ property homeowners preserve their homes. From predatory investors to property tax foreclosures, this interactive session will explore the challenges low-income homeowners face when they inherit their homes — and key lawyering strategies to tackle these challenges. We will also navigate the ethical considerations presented by heirs’ property cases.

Moderators

Sara Espahbodi

Staff Attorney, TLSC

Speakers

Amir Befroui

Supervising Attorney/Managing Attorney - Foreclosure Prevention Project, LSLA

Practicing lawMentorshipServing low income communitiesHelping consumers (Consumer law)Helping homeowners with a variety of legal issues (real estate law)The highs and lows of litigationPractice uses of mediationUniversity of Houston athleticsPracticing yogaCyclingThe stresses and... Read More →

Heather Way

Clinical Professor, University Of Texas School Of Law

Heather K. Way is on the faculty at The University of Texas School of Law where she serves as a clinical professor and the director of the Entrepreneurship and Community Development Clinic. Heather has more than 20 years of experience working on the creation of equitable and inclusive... Read More →

Lizbeth Parra Davila

Attorney, Texas RioGrande Legal Aid

2024 PLC Heirs Presentation pptx

50 114 (Spanish) pdf

50 114 pdf

50 114 a (Spanish) pdf

50 114 a pdf

Case study handout docx

Examples of Houston area disaster repair programs that require clear title docx

Hanson Business Park LP v First Nat Title Ins Co pdf

Haynes v Molina pdf

Heirs Property Mail Packet Sample pdf

LSLA Representation Agreement (intestate title clearing work) docx

Lund v Emerson pdf

Pfluger v Clack pdf

RFI or NOE with add l citations for SII or loan mod issues doc

San Antonio homeowner outreach project WereHereToStay InOrder pdf

Supplement to Ethics section of presentation docx

Supplement to Materials and Resources of presentation docx

Texas Auto Co v Arbetter pdf

Transmountain Partners LLC v Romero pdf

TX Disc R Prof Cond pdf

HECHO Check In + Next Steps (2) pdf

HECHO Flier Clinic 202201 2.4.22 (1) pptx

HECHO outreach guidlines pdf

HECHO Spanish Flier Clinic 202201 2.4.22 pptx

HECHO Training St. Mary s (draft) docx

Thursday August 29, 2024 1:15pm - 2:30pm CDT
Room 410

1:15pm CDT

How Systemic Racism Affects Human Trafficking Victims of Color

Thursday August 29, 2024 1:15pm - 2:30pm CDT

Room 408

People of color face inequities and inequalities, culturally and systematically. People of color are one of the most vulnerable populations for being trafficked – Black girls make up most of the sex-trafficking victims in the US, while most labor-trafficking victims in the US are Latinx. We will give a brief overview of human trafficking, why people of color are most at risk for trafficking, how systemic racism leads to lost opportunities to identify survivors of color, the societal barriers that trafficking victims of color face as it pertains to their interactions with “first responders” such as law enforcement at times of emergency or crisis, and challenges that lead to access to health care, legal representation, and other resources and support systems. We will use Language access as a case study, with an impact video about language access provided by Co-presenter Zurisday Briz Robbins.

Moderators

Sara Espahbodi

Staff Attorney, TLSC

Speakers

Ugochukwu, Davina

LSLA

Davina Ugochukwu is a staff attorney with Lone Star Legal Aid’s Justice for Human Trafficking Survivors program. The JHTS program was created in response to the unique civil legal needs that survivors of labor and sex trafficking face when attempting to stabilize their lives and... Read More →

Zurisday Briz

Gulf Coast Alianza

Davina Ugochukwu, LSLA, PLC '24 Presentation (1) pdf

Thursday August 29, 2024 1:15pm - 2:30pm CDT
Room 408

1:15pm CDT

Navigating the Immigration System with Clients with Diminished Capacity (.50 Ethics)

Thursday August 29, 2024 1:15pm - 2:30pm CDT

Room 415

The complex immigration system can be even more complicated to navigate with clients with diminished capacity. Diminished capacity may affect a client’s ability to participate in their immigration case, applications they may file for themself, or their capacity to file applications on behalf of others. The presentation will equip practitioners with tools to issue-spot in immigration cases involving clients with diminished capacity and assist clients in navigating the immigration process. The presentation will review USCIS and EOIR policy regarding clients with diminished capacity and what documents may be necessary to prepare to support clients with diminished capacity as they navigate these systems. The presentation will also discuss ethical concerns regarding representing either beneficiaries or petitioners with diminished capacity.

Moderators

Kevin Dietz

Deputy Director, Texas Legal Services Center

Speakers

Caitlin Fish

Attorney, Texas RioGrande Legal Aid

Caitlin Fish is a Staff Attorney in Texas RioGrande Legal Aid’s Laredo Office, where she practices primarily immigration and family law. As a member of the Legal Aid for Survivors of Sexual Assault (LASSA) team at TRLA, Caitlin also handles a variety of civil legal cases for survivors... Read More →

SLIDES Navigating the Immigration System with Clients with Diminished Capacity pdf

ABA Advisory Representing Detained Respondents of Diminished Capacity pdf

Capacity in the Context of Immigration Law Part I Evaluation and Ethics (Westlaw) pdf

Capacity in the Context of Immigration Law Part II Developing a Strategy (Westlaw) pdf

CLINIC Practice Advisory Representing Noncitizens with Mental Illness pdf

ILRC Manual Representing clients with mental illness in detained removal proceedings pdf

Matter of M A M , 25 I&N Dec. 474 (BIA 2011) pdf

Thursday August 29, 2024 1:15pm - 2:30pm CDT
Room 415

1:15pm CDT

Protective Orders in TX: The New Frontier

Thursday August 29, 2024 1:15pm - 2:30pm CDT

Room 406

In this session, attendees will learn about strategies employed by the Legal Aid of NorthWest Texas LASSA team when seeking protective orders across the many counties in LANWT's service area. This presentation will include what trends attorneys are seeing since the most recent legislative change.

Moderators

Muneeza ILAHI

Speakers

Christofer R. Tracy

Supervising Attorney, Legal Aid of NorthWest Texas

August Mustillo

LANWT

Protective Orders in TX FINAL pptx

Thursday August 29, 2024 1:15pm - 2:30pm CDT
Room 406

1:15pm CDT

“Who You Gonna Call?” Advocacy 101 Best Practices. When Attorneys, Advocates, Paralegals, & Social Workers Collaborate with Each Other To Reach the Best Client Goals & Outcomes.

Thursday August 29, 2024 1:15pm - 2:30pm CDT

Salon E

TRLA Staff attorney and members of the social work team will encourage new and experienced advocates to learn social worker best practices using social work systems and rational choice theory. Using these theories, we will offer the best legal aid and holistic support to the people who legal aid helps. We will discuss self-determination and what humans’ basic needs are. Advocates will learn and discuss strengths-based practices and approaches while helping clients. And advocates will be able to learn cultural competence and how to respect diversity in the clients we work with. Using these practices legal aid can offer the best possible support to clients with whatever legal help they are requesting. In addition, we will offer insight into why having a social worker is helpful and when to collaborate with a social worker. Who you gonna call?

Moderators

Miranda Guerrero

Attorney, Texas RioGrande Legal Aid

Speakers

Gabrielle Marshall

Attorney, Texas RioGrande Legal Aid

Elizabeth Barrera-Sepulveda

MS, LPC with TRLA/LASSA Project, Texas RioGrande Legal Aid

Liz Barrera-Sepulveda is a licensed professional counselor and has worked with victim/survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault for more than 25 years. She currently works with Texas RioGrande Legal Aid on the LASSA project, with the social work team and family law team.She... Read More →

Myda J. Hernandez

Social Worker, Texas RioGrande Legal Aid

Myda Hernandez is a Licensed Master Social Worker with Texas RioGrande Legal Aid, where she works with survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault under the family law team. As part of the social work team, she provides a variety of services that include safety planning... Read More →

Who Are You Going to Call PowerPoint PLC 2024 (1) (1) pptx

Thursday August 29, 2024 1:15pm - 2:30pm CDT
Salon E

2:45pm CDT

Bankruptcy 101: A Primer for Legal Aid Attorneys (.25 Ethics)

Thursday August 29, 2024 2:45pm - 4:00pm CDT

Salon E

May the Force of financial freedom be with you! Join us for "Bankruptcy 101: A Primer for Legal Aid Attorneys" – an intergalactic journey through the complex universe of bankruptcy law. This engaging presentation aims to demystify the process of bankruptcy for legal aid attorneys, providing them with a foundational understanding of bankruptcy basics that's as solid as beskar armor.

By equipping attorneys with this knowledge, they'll be better prepared to assist lower-income individuals and families in navigating the treacherous asteroid field of the bankruptcy process. Through interactive discussions, real-world scenarios featuring familiar galactic characters, and lighthearted Star Wars references, attendees will gain practical insights and strategies to increase access to this critical legal remedy for those in need.

From understanding the power of the automatic stay to avoiding the Dark Side of malpractice, this presentation serves as a hyperdrive jump for attorneys looking to expand their practice areas and make a meaningful impact on the lives of their clients. Whether you're a Padawan or a Jedi Master in the legal realm, you'll leave with valuable tools to help your clients achieve a fresh financial start. Don't miss this opportunity to become a true guardian of galactic finance!

Moderators

Miranda Guerrero

Attorney, Texas RioGrande Legal Aid

Speakers

Amy Allen

Supervising Attorney, LANWT

Samantha Kehl

Staff Attorney, Legal Aid of Northwest Texas

Bankruptcy 101 pptx

Thursday August 29, 2024 2:45pm - 4:00pm CDT
Salon E

2:45pm CDT

Lifting the Veil: Understanding How Pro Bono Organizations Fill the Gap (.25 Ethics)

Thursday August 29, 2024 2:45pm - 4:00pm CDT

Room 412

Learn how Houston Volunteer Lawyers, San Antonio Legal Services Association, and Volunteer Legal Services of Central Texas serve the low income community. Each organization will describe their organizations mission, structure, intake, case types,the best way to refer to them, and about their volunteer attorneys.

Speakers

Maricarmen Guzman Dollar

Staff Attorney, Houston Volunteer Lawyers

Robert Mihara

Managing Attorney, San Antonio Legal Services Association

Starting as Managing Attorney in July 2024 for San Antonio Legal Services Association (SA-LSA), a volunteer legal services organization, after having served as a fellow and staff attorney in the housing and estate planning/probate program areas respectively. Retired from the US military... Read More →

Susanne Pringle

Director of Legal Services, Volunteer Legal Services of Central Texas

1 PLC 2024 SALSA Presentation DRAFT 13Aug2024 pptx

2 HVL PLC 2024 Slides (final) pptx

3 VLS Slides for PLC 2024 Presentation pptx

Thursday August 29, 2024 2:45pm - 4:00pm CDT
Room 412

2:45pm CDT

Offensive Advocacy in Mass Habitability and Eviction Cases

Thursday August 29, 2024 2:45pm - 4:00pm CDT

Room 408

When landlords allow their apartments to fester in disrepair, the brutal speed of evictions in Texas and piecemeal relief available for individual tenants makes it difficult to advocate for community-wide solutions. This presentation will explore aggressive, plaintiff-side litigation as a tool for maintaining habitable low-income housing. It will outline the litigation model we are currently building, which focuses on maximizing pressure and injunctive relief to force landlords into repairing substandard conditions. Utilizing tools such as the DTPA, the Fair Housing Act, and more creative causes of action such as civil RICO suits, this model aims to take landlords out of JP court and force them to the table. The presentation will cover our planned approach and ongoing mass habitability cases.

Moderators

Sara Espahbodi

Staff Attorney, TLSC

Speakers

Benjamin Gerzik

LANWT

Mass Habitability PLC 2024 pptx

Thursday August 29, 2024 2:45pm - 4:00pm CDT
Room 408

2:45pm CDT

Order in the Court: Understanding the Role of Trauma in the Legal System

Thursday August 29, 2024 2:45pm - 4:00pm CDT

Room 410

In this enlightening workshop, we delve into the critical topic of trauma and its significant impact within the legal system. Our focus is on empowering advocacy and its role in aiding survivors of power-based violence, such as intimate partner violence, sexual assault, trafficking, stalking, and abuse. We will explore how trauma reshapes a survivor's response and recovery process, emphasizing the need for a trauma-informed approach in legal practices.

Moderators

Sara Espahbodi

Staff Attorney, TLSC

Speakers

Christina Suh

Staff Attorney, Texas Advocacy Project

Christina Suh is passionate about advocating for survivors of violence and children’s rights. Her goal is to provide clients with legal guidance and fuel their courage to enter new stages of their lives free from societal barriers and coercive control. She is grateful to be a part... Read More →

Kaitlyn Eberhardt

Education & Prevention Director, Texas Advocacy Project

Kaitlyn Eberhardt is the Education & Prevention Director at Texas Advocacy Project, a non-profit organization providing free legal and social services to survivors of domestic and dating violence, sexual assault, stalking, human trafficking, and child abuse. She leads conversations... Read More →

Order in the Court Understanding the Role of Trauma in the Legal System 8.29 PLC pptx

Thursday August 29, 2024 2:45pm - 4:00pm CDT
Room 410

2:45pm CDT

Sticky Issues in Social Security

Thursday August 29, 2024 2:45pm - 4:00pm CDT

Room 415

1) Social Security suspensions and cessations of benefits and how to deal with each; 2) Overpayments, the need for a proper notice, and remedies by appeal, waiverm or change in monthly payment amount; 3) March 20 2024 changes to collection procedures for overpayments; and 4) Campos v Kijakazi settlement changes regarding overpayments during the COVID period.

Moderators

Kevin Dietz

Deputy Director, Texas Legal Services Center

Speakers

Jeff Larsen

attorney, Lone Star Legal Aid

woodworking, traditional music and singing in parts, Shakespeare, Social Security

Robert Hill

Attorney, Texas RioGrande Legal Aid

PLC 2024 SSA Sticky Issues Rob Hill and Jeff Larsen Presentation pptx

PLC Cessations and Overpayments Additional Materials pdf

Thursday August 29, 2024 2:45pm - 4:00pm CDT
Room 415

2:45pm CDT

Vicious Cycles & Vital Records: ID Recovery for Clients Experiencing Homelessness

Thursday August 29, 2024 2:45pm - 4:00pm CDT

Room 406

Identification documents, such as birth certificates, marriage licenses, and school records, are typically required for individuals to obtain housing, employment, educational opportunities, medical care, and more. A state ID card is sometimes harder to get than people think, especially for those experiencing homelessness. The rules, regulations, and laws surrounding state-issued IDs and vital records are often overly complicated, and the process can be extremely difficult to navigate, especially for those who are most vulnerable in our communities, such as survivors of abuse, veterans, unhoused individuals, etc. This presentation will dive deep into the ins and outs of ID recovery, including tips when dealing with difficult agencies and navigating the little-known laws involving IDs and vital records.

Moderators

Muneeza ILAHI

Speakers

Stephanie Harlien

Director of Pro Bono Programs, St. Mary's University School of Law Center for Legal and Social Justice

Decision Flow Chart pdf

Documents for TXID pdf

Documents for SSC pdf

MV Certificate of Homeless Status pdf

2024.08 PLC Identification Recovery pdf

Warrants final pdf

SSC Limit Exception Redacted pdf

Thursday August 29, 2024 2:45pm - 4:00pm CDT
Room 406

4:15pm CDT

Poverty Law Section Meeting

Thursday August 29, 2024 4:15pm - 5:30pm CDT

Salon E

How to join the Texas Legal Services Listserv
(LS_Texas@googlegroups.com)

Contact Melissa Duetsch at the Texas Legal Services Center via email: mdeutsch@tlsc.org

Thursday August 29, 2024 4:15pm - 5:30pm CDT
Salon E

Section / Task Force Meeting

8:30am CDT

Beyond City Limits: Strategies for Providing Services in Deeply Rural Texas

Friday August 30, 2024 8:30am - 9:45am CDT

Salon E

Explore strategies for providing critical legal and support services to underserved populations in deeply rural areas. The panelists have extensive experience in the provision of a variety of services to people living and working in remote parts. They will share insights on overcoming the unique barriers and logistical challenges of rural legal aid. Learn about their experiences with initiating rural service programs, finding clients, and avoiding pitfalls. Attendees will gain valuable perspectives on effectively reaching and serving those in need despite the obstacles posed by limited resources, long distances, and cultural barriers. The discussion aims to help providers and their programs support those beyond city limits.

Moderators

Linda Brandmiller

Speakers

Dora Garcia-Ruiz

Farmworker Outreach Coordinator, Texas RioGrande Legal Aid

Doris Garcia-Ruiz is a paralegal at Texas RioGrande Legal Aid who specializes in outreach.

Cristian Sanchez

Economic Justice Director, Texas Immigration Law Council

Texas Immigration Law Council Awarded Groundbreaking Grant to Help Immigrants Access Economic Justice ⋆ Texas Immigration Law Council (txilc.org)... Read More →

Gladys Marcos

LANWT

Beyond City Limits PLC CLE Presentation pptx

Friday August 30, 2024 8:30am - 9:45am CDT
Salon E

8:30am CDT

Ethical Standards of Conduct for Accredited VA Attorneys, Claims Agents, & VSO Representatives Serving Veterans & Their Dependents. (Ethics 1.25)

Friday August 30, 2024 8:30am - 9:45am CDT

Room 415

OVERVIEW:
Attendees will learn the current statutory and case law relevant to fulfilling the “Standards of Conduct” delineated under 38 C.F.R. § 14.632, which requires Accredited VA Attorneys, Claims Agents, and VSO Representatives to faithfully execute duties, be truthful in dealings, provide competent representation, and act with reasonable diligence and promptness. At the conclusion attendees should be able (1). To clearly understand the regulatory requirements of appropriate behavior expected of VA-accredited Attorneys, Claims Agents, and VSO Representatives as delineated 38 C.F.R. §§ 14.632 (a) & (b) by completing case scenarios; (2). To discuss why conduct that may be unethical, fraudulent, deceitful, misrepresent, or dishonest is not beneficial to veterans or their dependents regarding benefits or other rights under title 38, United States Code, or title 38, Code of Federal Regulations; (3). To understand the consequences of unreasonably delaying, without good cause, the processing of a claim at any stage of the administrative process or to engage in, acts or behavior prejudicial to the fair and orderly conduct of administrative proceedings before VA.

KEY PRACTICE AREAS/CONCEPTS: Veterans Law; Initial and Re-accreditation for Attorneys, Claims Agents, and VSO Representatives.

PRESENTER:
Reginal D. Harris, JD, PharmD, RPh, CMTM
Founder, President, & Executive Director
Helping Warriors Succeed, Inc.
Attorney & Counselor-at-Law
Accredited VA Attorney
U.S. Army & Air Force Veteran

PROFESSIONAL LEGAL AFFILIATIONS:
State Bar of Texas
National Bar Association
San Antonio Bar Association
Texas Bar College
Texas Bar Pro Bono College
Texas Young Lawyers Associations

Moderators

Amy Grace Humber

Law Student

Speakers

Reginal D. Harris

President & Executive Director, Helping Warriors Succeed, Inc.

1How To Apply For Va Accreditation As An Attorney Or Claims Agent pdf

2Applying for Accreditation as an Attorney or Agent pdf

3Standards of Conduct pdf

4How to Challenge a Fee pdf

5How to File a Complaint Regarding Representation pdf

6Enforcement Authority pdf

8Process for Attorney and Claims Agent Contact Change Requests pdf

9Tips on Fee Agreements for Veterans Claims pdf

10Application for Accreditation as Service Organization Representative (VA Form 21) pdf

11Application for Accreditation as a Claims Agent or Attorney pdf

12VA Form 10091, “VA FSC Vendor File Request Form pdf

Ethical Standards of Conduct for Accredited VA Attorneys (Paper Harris final) pdf

Ethical Standards of Conduct for Accredited VA Attorneys(PPT PREZ) pdf

Friday August 30, 2024 8:30am - 9:45am CDT
Room 415

8:30am CDT

I’ll Be Watching You/Come Spy with Me/The Spy Who Loved Me - Technology & Privacy (.50 Ethics)

Friday August 30, 2024 8:30am - 9:45am CDT

Room 410

As technology improves, litigation fact-finding is both easier and harder. Your client may provide you with case information that was acquired illegally in violation of the Federal or State wiretapping or the stored communications acts. What are these acts? How might my client or I, as their attorney, violate the act? What are the consequences of violating the act? What is my duty, as the attorney on the case, to make sure all fact gathering is done legally? How is technology making it easier to fake documents and photos? This session will explore and attempt to answer these questions with take-a-ways to give you the tools you need to best represent your client while preparing their cases for court.

Moderators

Karen Miller

Executive Director, Texas Legal Services Center

Karen is the Executive Director for Texas Legal Services Center. Karen served on the Texas Supreme Court’s Uniform Forms Taskforce and Rules Sub-committees, and currently serves on the Judicial Committee on Information Technology and the Administration and Budget Taskforce of the... Read More →

Speakers

Hon. Janet B. Heppard

387th Judicial District Court - Presiding Judge

Hon. Richard T. Bell

387th Judicial District Court -- Associate Judge

Handout Final Version pdf

Poverty Law Wiretapping PowerPoint Final Version pdf

Friday August 30, 2024 8:30am - 9:45am CDT
Room 410

8:30am CDT

Legal Aid's Role in Combating the Opioid Crisis: A Comprehensive Approach

Friday August 30, 2024 8:30am - 9:45am CDT

Room 408

This session will introduce attendees to opioid use disorder (OUD), its origins and current efforts to address the public health crisis. The presentation includes studies and statistics indicating how prevalent OUD is in society and briefly cover treatment options. After a brief topic introduction and discussion of OUD treatment options, the presentation will focus on civil rights aspects relating to OUD and protections under the Americans with Disabilities Act. It will further discuss cooperative efforts between the American Medical Association (AMA) and the American Bar Association (ABA) in addressing the crisis through medical-legal partnerships and programs targeted at the relevant population. A portion of the presentation will discuss OUD effects on vulnerable society segments and the role legal aid plays in assisting with recovery. Finally, presenters will discuss LSLA’s and partners’ efforts in reaching the relevant population as well as programs with other providers utilized to deliver legal services and assist with recovery. This includes cooperative efforts with drug courts and treatment facilities.

Moderators

Muneeza ILAHI

Speakers

Velimir Rasic

Staff Attorney, LSLA

Minette Mukum

Staff Attorney, LSLA

20240830 01 Legal Aid's Role in Combating the Opioid Crisis pptx

Friday August 30, 2024 8:30am - 9:45am CDT
Room 408

8:30am CDT

Lessons Learned from Responding to the 2024 Panhandle Wildfires: A Case Study (.25 Ethics)

Friday August 30, 2024 8:30am - 9:45am CDT

Room 406

In Winter 2024, Legal Aid of NorthWest Texas’s Disaster Legal Services Unit responded to the largest wildfires in Texas history. We attended community resource fairs in Hutchinson and Hemphill Counties interacting with impacted individuals; this presentation details our experiences there and some takeaways. The presentation focuses on: special considerations for disasters when no federal disaster is declared, including funding options for survivors; the ethics about being approached by private attorneys and advising our client population on interactions with private attorneys; common issues seen after wildfires; and considerations when responding to disasters in rural areas, such as ensuring being respectful of resources first responders and disaster survivors need and working with go-packs that your organization might use when responding to disasters.

Speakers

Melissa Waggoner

Staff Attorney, LANWT

PLC presentation pptx

Friday August 30, 2024 8:30am - 9:45am CDT
Room 406

8:30am CDT

Preserving Homeownership & Intergenerational Wealth: Using the Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act (RESPA) & Other Tools To Resolve Mortgage Servicing Errors, Including Errors That Impact Heir Property Owners (.25 Ethics)

Friday August 30, 2024 8:30am - 9:45am CDT

Room 412

We’ll begin by providing an overview of the mortgage foreclosure process in Texas, along with a summary of the mortgage servicing landscape. We’ll then discuss the tools attorneys can use under the Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act (RESPA) to correct loan servicing errors that can lead to foreclosure. We’ll particularly focus on correcting Successor in Interest errors affecting heir property owners. We’ll also touch on tools available through certain administrative agencies to address servicing errors. We’ll finish by reviewing some of the most common scams that clients may encounter when facing foreclosure. At appropriate junctures throughout the presentation, we’ll discuss ethical considerations relevant to working with clients who are facing loan servicing errors and scams.

Moderators

Miranda Guerrero

Attorney, Texas RioGrande Legal Aid

Speakers

Andrew Moore

Managing Attorney, LSLA

Lauren Masullo Martin

Staff Attorney, Foreclosure Prevention Project, Lone Star Legal Aid

HANDOUT Authorization for Release of Information English pdf

HANDOUT Authorization for Release of Information Spanish pdf

HANDOUT HUD Third Party Authorization pdf

HANDOUT CFPB Pro Se Notice of Error Template pdf

HANDOUT CFPB Pro Se Request for Information Template pdf

HANDOUT QWR Template pdf

HANDOUT CFPB Fast Facts summary of proposed changes to RESPA pdf

HANDOUT CFPB Unofficial Readline of proposed changes to RESPA pdf

HANDOUT CFPB Advisory Opinion on Reg Z covering Contracts for Deed pdf

HANDOUT NCLER Assessing Legal Capacity pdf

HANDOUT ABA Capacity Worksheet pdf

HANDOUT VA Loans detailed information pdf

HANDOUT NOE letter directing servicer to send mail to borrower pdf

HANDOUT CFPB Home Loan Toolkit pdf

HANDOUT Sample NOE RFI for loss mit after divorce pdf

HANDOUT A Checkup on Homeowners Who Experienced Foreclosure Liberty Street Economics pdf

HANDOUT A look at two Harris County cases Kinder Institute for Urban Research Rice University pdf

PPT PRESERVING HOMEOWNERSHIP & INTERGENERATIONAL WEALTH pdf

PPT PRESERVING HOMEOWNERSHIP & INTERGENERATIONAL WEALTH pptx

Friday August 30, 2024 8:30am - 9:45am CDT
Room 412

10:00am CDT

Check and Un-Wreck Credit Reports: Growing Your Practice with Consumer Credit Reporting

Friday August 30, 2024 10:00am - 11:15am CDT

Room 412

Consumer credit reporting impacts our clients’ access to jobs, overall economic stability, and now more than ever, safe and secure shelter. Holistic representation of low-income clients can require obtaining and understanding the client’s credit reports. In this session you will learn about the protections and limitations of the Fair Credit Reporting Act, as well as various ways to address negative credit information. We will cover how to use credit information to inform your practice in the areas of debt collection, bankruptcy, housing, and beyond. We will also discuss credit reporting as a means of preventative law, and how to work together with community workers to empower low-income clients to know and correct their credit history before problems arise.

Moderators

Miranda Guerrero

Attorney, Texas RioGrande Legal Aid

Speakers

Becky Moseley

Managing Attorney, LANWT

John Grieger

Managing Attorney, Legal Aid of NorthWest Texas

John Grieger has 34 years of bankruptcy law experience. A graduate of Northwestern University (BA-Spanish) and the University of San Diego School of Law, John returned to his native Chicago after law school and worked as a staff attorney for the Chapter 13 Trustee. After that... Read More →

Check and Un Wreck Credit Reports BM Final Draft pptx

NCLCAutomated injustice redux pdf

20240329 Consumer reporting companies obligation to correct errors CFPB pdf

20220802 CFPB Issues Three FCRA Interpretations with Widespread Implications NCLC pdf

Friday August 30, 2024 10:00am - 11:15am CDT
Room 412

10:00am CDT

Collaboration 101: Effectively Partnering with Law School Clinics

Friday August 30, 2024 10:00am - 11:15am CDT

Room 406

Community lawyering requires many hands, many hats, and collaborative determination to creatively solve systemic problems. What if some of that collaboration came from enriching partnerships with law school clinics? A partnership with a law school clinic provides a win-win for all parties: law students get hands-on legal experience with active cases, legal aid attorneys receive additional hands in intensive casework, and clients receive quality work from supervised law students in addition to licensed attorneys. This presentation will discuss all aspects of working with law school clinics using a co-counseling partnership between Legal Aid of NorthWest Texas and Texas A&M’s Civil Rights Clinic as a framework. This presentation will conclude with an interactive brainstorming session on potential case work for clinical students and participants will be encouraged to share their experiences. Class is in session, no LSAT required!

Speakers

Haley Varnadoe

Staff Attorney, Legal Aid of NorthWest Texas

PLC 2024 pptx

Friday August 30, 2024 10:00am - 11:15am CDT
Room 406

10:00am CDT

Essentials for Non-Immigration Practitioners: 2024 Immigration Legal Updates & Practical Tips

Friday August 30, 2024 10:00am - 11:15am CDT

Salon E

This session offers an overview of updates on the rapidly evolving immigration law and policy landscape, equipping attorneys with the latest developments and practical tools to better serve their clients. Key topics include the litigation status of SB4, the new Deferred Action for workers in labor disputes program, recent Temporary Protected Status announcements, and border initiatives like CBP One, Enhanced Expedited Removal, and Circumvention of Lawful Pathways. For non-immigration practitioners, the session provides straightforward guidance and resources to support non-citizen clients and those to be referred. Attendees will learn about basic immigration concepts like Alien Numbers (A-Numbers), how to find non-citizens detained by ICE, how to check for future immigration court hearing dates, and become familiar with various online tools. Walk away with an easy immigration practice toolkit to confidently field simple immigration queries. *Updates and practical tips subject to change based on immigration news and needs.

Moderators

Linda Brandmiller

Speakers

Jessica Cisneros

Managing Attorney, Texas Immigration Law Council

Essentials for Non Immigration Practitioners 8.28 pptx

List of Helpful Immigration Websites and Resources pdf

Handout for providers and families how to use the EOIR automated system English Spanish pdf

odls brochure pdf

Preparing for Asylum Case in Court Checklist ENGLISH (1) pdf

Preparing for Asylum Case in Court Checklist SPANISH pdf

Worksheet for Recent Arrivals ENGLISH pdf

Worksheet for Recent Arrivals SPANISH pdf

Sample Imm Documents pdf

Friday August 30, 2024 10:00am - 11:15am CDT
Salon E

10:00am CDT

HUD's Rental Assistance Demonstration (RAD) Program and Rights of Tenants in Converted Properties

Friday August 30, 2024 10:00am - 11:15am CDT

Room 410

This session will provide an overview of RAD, with a focus on rights of tenants in properties converted under RAD. RAD was originally authorized by Congress in the 2012 Appropriations Act. Many public housing authorities have converted their public housing units under RAD. This session will describe how rights of tenants in such properties have been affected and the importance of determining whether tenant lives in RAD-converted property.

Moderators

Karen Miller

Executive Director, Texas Legal Services Center

Speakers

Fred Fuchs

Attorney, Texas RioGrande Legal Aid

Fred Fuchs is the housing group coordinator for Texas RioGrande Legal Aid, where he oversees the program's housing work. He also serves as an adjunct professor at the University of Texas School of Law where he teaches a housing clinic each spring. He received his law degree from the... Read More →

Rental Housing Demonstration (RAD) (Final) pdf

Power Point. Rental Housing Demonstration (RAD). Poverty Law Conf. August 30, 2024.Final pptx

Friday August 30, 2024 10:00am - 11:15am CDT
Room 410

10:00am CDT

Termination of Parental Rights, Trial Prep & Preservation of Evidence & Appeals

Friday August 30, 2024 10:00am - 11:15am CDT

Room 415

Discussing termination of parental rights and our experience in preserving evidence and what to look out for on appeals if the termination is appealed.

Moderators

Amy Grace Humber

Law Student

Speakers

Kogutt, Merissa

Legal Aid Of NorthWest Texas

Anwesha Sarkar

Legal Aid of NorthWest Texas

Terminations 8 21 24 (1) pptx

Friday August 30, 2024 10:00am - 11:15am CDT
Room 415

10:00am CDT

Virtual Court Kiosks & Legal Aid in Texas: New Features, Initiatives, & Goals

Friday August 30, 2024 10:00am - 11:15am CDT

Room 408

This 90-minute session delves into the evolution and expanding role of Virtual Court Kiosks in Texas. The session begins with a brief introduction of the panel and the agenda. Next there will be an overview of the Virtual Court Access Project’s development from its inception to the present. The session will then highlight the latest advancements in the Virtual Court Kiosk User Interface 3.0, including a tour of new features and insights from recent usability testing. Special attention will be given to the enhanced accessibility features of the kiosks, ensuring they meet diverse user needs. Then a roundtable discussion that explores the varied applications of these kiosks across Texas communities and their potential for integration into legal aid services, complemented by a live Q&A will take place. The session will conclude with closing remarks and details on any necessary follow-ups.

Moderators

Muneeza ILAHI

Speakers

Elliott Fontenette

Managing Attorney, TLSC

Candi Rivera

Network Coordinator, TLSC

2024 PLC Presentation Final pptx

Friday August 30, 2024 10:00am - 11:15am CDT
Room 408

11:30am CDT

AI Advancements for Civil Legal Service Attorneys: Enhancing Advocacy for Indigent Clients

Friday August 30, 2024 11:30am - 12:45pm CDT

Salon E

Our presentation aims to equip civil legal service attorneys with practical knowledge and skills in understanding and using AI tools for enhanced advocacy. We'll delve into the available AI options tailored to their specific needs, offering hands-on instruction on integrating AI into litigation, drafting, and advocacy strategies. By harnessing AI, civil service attorneys can overcome resource limitations and optimize their representation of indigent clients. We'll explore how AI streamlines legal research, aids in case analysis and development, and facilitates document drafting, ultimately empowering attorneys to deliver more effective and efficient legal services. We hope to assist attendees in discovering how AI can revolutionize legal practice for civil service attorneys, enabling them to better serve their clients and fulfill their mission (we are using AI to develop this presentation from start to finish, including in this proposal in hopes of demonstrating its range and helpfulness).

Moderators

Linda Brandmiller

Speakers

Katie Valle

Senior Attorney, The Law Office of Jason Wright, PLLC

Edge, Andrew

McGinnis Lochridge

2024.08.21 AI Advancements for Civil Legal Service Attorneys vs[81] Read Only pptx

Friday August 30, 2024 11:30am - 12:45pm CDT
Salon E

11:30am CDT

Brief Advice: Online Resources To Fill the Gap Between Information & Representation

Friday August 30, 2024 11:30am - 12:45pm CDT

Room 406

This session will discuss how four different online services use technology to provide brief legal advice to low-income clients, including: Texas Law Help Chat, Parenting Order Legal Line chat, Texas Free Legal Answers, and AskKarla. Attendees will learn how these services are able to reach a large number of people using relatively few resources, thus providing a valuable service to clients who are unable to afford an attorney and have been unable to find a free attorney. We will also discuss how attendees might incorporate these services into their workflow.

Speakers

Michael Hofrichter

LegalServer

Aaron Varner

Co-Managing Attorney, TLSC

Welsh, Joseph

TLSC

Mary C. Rios

Managing Attorney, Texas Legal Services Center

Brief Advice Online Resources To Fill The Gap Between Information And Representation pptx

Friday August 30, 2024 11:30am - 12:45pm CDT
Room 406

11:30am CDT

Fight Back! Affirmative Lawsuits To File Against Landlords for Utility Interruptions & Lockouts

Friday August 30, 2024 11:30am - 12:45pm CDT

Room 408

As legal aid attorneys assisting tenants, we are often in a defensive position defending evictions. Sometimes, we should go on the offensive. In this session, we will cover how, when, and where to file (relatively) simple cases against landlords with a focus on lockouts and utility interruptions. You will be provided complete template packages including the application for writ of reentry and writ of restoration, prove-up questions for the hearing, affidavit of disobedience (contempt), and petition to file for damages after you get the tenant back in the unit and/or the utilities restored.

Moderators

Muneeza ILAHI

Speakers

Melinda Lopez

Senior Staff Attorney, Lone Star Legal Aid

Melinda Lopez is the staff attorney for the Housing and Consumer Unit at Lone Star Legal Aid. She has been with LSLA for over 11 years, the first 5 years were at the Bryan office and is now currently at the Houston office. Throughout the years, she has assisted low-income clients... Read More →

Leesa Everitt

Staff Attorney, Lone Star Legal Aid

Lockout Damages Sample Template doc

Original Petition Suit for Damages both Lock Out and Utitily Shut off Sample Template doc

Prove Questions for Court Lock Out SAMPLE docx

Prove Questions for Court Writ of Restoration SAMPLE docx

Show Cause Affidavit of Disobedience Sample doc

Show Cause Order TEMPLATE doc

Writ of Re Entry Application Sample Template doc

Writ of Re Entry Application Texas Law Help Modified TEMPLATE docx

Writ of Restoration Application Sample Template docx

Writ of Restoration Application Texas Law Help docx

PLC 2024 Fight Back V4 pptx

Friday August 30, 2024 11:30am - 12:45pm CDT
Room 408

11:30am CDT

Fighting for Better Air Quality in Local Communities Against the Aggregate Industry.

Friday August 30, 2024 11:30am - 12:45pm CDT

Room 415

This session will cover the (i) standard permits that allow concrete batch plants and concrete crushers to operate in and near residential communities and near community assets across Texas, (ii) how to challenge these permits, and (iii) how the Environmental Protection Agency’s changes to the National Ambient Air Quality Standards for small particulate matter will affect these permits.

Moderators

Amy Grace Humber

Law Student

Speakers

Amy Dinn

Litigation Director / Managing Attorney, Lone Star Legal Aid

Environmental JusticeCivil Rights Litigation

Caroline Crow

Staff Attorney, LSLA

(2022) Harris County Public Comments CBP Amendment pdf

(2022) Harris County Title VI Complaint CBP pdf

(2022) LSLA Amd Petition Judicial Review CBP& Exhs. pdf

(2022) LSLA Title VI Complaint CBP pdf

(2022) Parties' Joint Motion to Abate Proceedings pdf

(2022) TCEQ N. Wayside Monitor Update 1 pdf

(2022) TCEQ N. Wayside Monitor Update 2 pdf

(2023) EPA CIA Project Dallas Fact Sheet pdf

(2023) EPA Comments on CBP pdf

(2023) LSLA Comments 2023 CBP Amendment pdf

(2024) LSLA AMNP Comments pdf

(2024) LSLA Title VI Complaint CBP pdf

(2024) TCEQ Air Pollution Study N. Wayside Monitor pdf

(2024) TCEQ N. Wayside Monitor Update 3 pdf

FINAL PPT PLC Aggregate Industry (LSLA) pptx

FINAL PPT PLC Aggregate Industry (LSLA) updated pptx

Friday August 30, 2024 11:30am - 12:45pm CDT
Room 415

11:30am CDT

The Intersection Between Youth Homelessness & Juvenile Justice

Friday August 30, 2024 11:30am - 12:45pm CDT

Room 412

Youth experiencing homelessness have greater involvement with the juvenile system than their peers. Conversely, youth may encounter homelessness because of a juvenile or criminal record. Presenters will discuss trends and facts at the intersection of juvenile justice and youth homelessness, including how courts and policymakers can limit victimization and support the population. Additionally, we will highlight any race, gender, or sex disparities present for youth who experience this intersection of homelessness and juvenile justice.

Moderators

Miranda Guerrero

Attorney, Texas RioGrande Legal Aid

Speakers

Brett Merfish

Texas Appleseed

Martinez, Martin

Senior Policy Analyst, Texas Appleseed

Intersection of JJ x YH PLC 2024 pptx

Friday August 30, 2024 11:30am - 12:45pm CDT
Room 412

11:30am CDT

VA Benefits 101 & Recent Updates (.25 Ethics)

Friday August 30, 2024 11:30am - 12:45pm CDT

Room 410

Basic overview of VA Benefits offered by the Department of Veteran Affairs, namely: the National Cemetery Administration (NCA), the Veteran Benefits Administration (VBA), and the Veteran Healthcare Administration (VHA). Special emphasis will be given to the recent PACT Act presumptions for VBA (signed into law in the summer of 2022) and updates to VHA related to the PACT Act that were implemented on Tuesday March 5, 2024. This update to VHA now allows for all Veterans who were exposed to toxins and other hazards while serving in the military – at home or abroad – eligibility to enroll directly in VA health care. Brief discussion of Professional Responsibility/Ethics/HIPAA.

Moderators

Friday August 30, 2024 11:30am - 12:45pm CDT
Room 410