As we observe Veterans Day, it’s important to reflect on the sacrifices made by our nation’s veterans and the challenges they often face when returning home. One of the most pressing challenges is homelessness, which affects many veterans who struggle to access vital services and benefits. At Atlanta’s John Marshall Law School, we are proud to support these brave men and women through the Homeless Veterans Legal Assistance Program, a critical resource dedicated to assisting homeless veterans in overcoming complex legal obstacles.
About the Homeless Veterans Legal Assistance Program
The Homeless Veterans Legal Assistance Program was founded to address the unique legal needs of veterans facing homelessness. Our mission is to provide accessible legal services to those who have bravely served our country but are now struggling to secure basic rights, benefits, and services. Under the guidance of experienced faculty members, our law students work directly with veterans to assist in several key areas, including:
- Housing Issues: Helping veterans secure stable housing and navigate eviction proceedings.
- Benefits Assistance: Guiding veterans through the process of obtaining VA benefits and other forms of government assistance.
- Discharge Upgrades: Assisting veterans in seeking upgrades to their military discharge status, which can significantly affect eligibility for benefits and services.
- Misdemeanor Charges we help with: Drug Related Charges, Simple Battery, Family Violence, Disorderly Conduct, Assault, Obstruction, Criminal Trespassing, Loitering, Violation of Probation, Failure to Appear, Theft/Shoplifting, Forgery, DUI, Suspended/ Revoked License, No Tags/Insurance, Misdemeanor Eluding/Fleeing the Police, Outstanding Warrants, Fines, Citations, and/or Expunge or Sealing a Criminal Record.
Since its founding in 2016, the program has served over 300 homeless veterans, providing legal assistance that empowers them to regain their rights, access benefits, and improve their quality of life. The program has grown significantly over the years, expanding its reach and capacity to serve more veterans across Georgia.
The Impact of the Recent Grant
Thanks to a generous grant, the Homeless Veterans Legal Assistance Program has been able to significantly increase its impact. The funding enabled the program to hire much-needed staff, enhance resources, and broaden its outreach efforts. In the first year of receiving the grant, the program served more veterans than in all the previous years combined, and it has continued to expand its services. This grant allowed the program to shift from operating on a pro bono basis to hiring a full-time attorney and additional support personnel, enabling it to take on more cases and provide specialized services.
With these resources, the program has been able to work with even more veterans in need of legal assistance, ensuring that they have access to the support and services they deserve. The program’s success has been nothing short of transformative, both for the veterans served and the law students who gain invaluable hands-on experience through their involvement.
The Future of the Program
Looking ahead, the future of the Homeless Veterans Legal Assistance Program is focused on further growth and expansion. We are committed to ensuring that more veterans across Georgia have access to the legal support they need. With the continued support of LSV grant funding, we aim to grow the program from serving veterans in seven counties to a statewide program, extending vital legal services to veterans across the state.
In addition to expanding the program’s geographic reach, we plan to increase staff and broaden our attorney pool, allowing us to take on even more cases and provide specialized support tailored to each veteran’s unique circumstances. We are dedicated to continuing this important work, and with the help of our community, we look forward to serving even more veterans in the years ahead.
Student Involvement: A Learning Opportunity
The Homeless Veterans Legal Assistance Program offers law students invaluable hands-on experience, preparing them for successful careers in law while instilling a deep commitment to public service. Through direct client interaction, students gain practical skills in legal advocacy, client counseling, and case management. The program’s emphasis on experiential learning helps students build expertise while making a positive impact on the lives of veterans.
By working with veterans to address their legal needs, students gain a deep understanding of the challenges faced by those who have served our country. For many students, this experience sparks a lifelong commitment to public service and social justice, guiding their future careers and community involvement.
Community Impact: Empowering Veterans
By providing legal assistance, we empower veterans to reclaim their rights, secure stable housing, and improve their quality of life. The program works closely with local veteran organizations and community partners to offer comprehensive support to those who have sacrificed so much for our country. This collaborative approach ensures that veterans receive not only legal help but also the wraparound services they need to succeed.
How You Can Help
As we honor veterans this Veterans Day, we encourage the community to support the program’s mission in a variety of ways:
- Volunteer: Join us in serving veterans. Legal professionals, students, and community members can all contribute their time and skills to help.
- Donate: Your contributions help fund the resources and services that are crucial to the program’s success.
- Spread Awareness: Share information about the program and its services. Your efforts will help us reach more veterans who need legal assistance.
Honoring Our Veterans
At Atlanta’s John Marshall Law School, we believe every veteran deserves access to legal support and the opportunity to live a dignified life. On this Veterans Day, let’s come together to honor those who have served our nation by advocating for their rights and well-being. Through the Homeless Veterans Legal Assistance Program, we are committed to making a lasting difference in the lives of those who have given so much for our freedom.
Together, we can continue to make a profound impact on the lives of veterans, ensuring they receive the legal support they deserve. By supporting the program, you are helping empower those who have served our country to rebuild their lives with dignity, respect, and access to the resources they need to thrive.
Assistance Program Contact Information: Email: vetcoordinator@johnmarshall.edu Phone: 678-916-2645