Getting to Know Legal Services of Northern California
By Julie Aguilar Rogado, LSNC Staff Attorney & Student
Recruitment, and Valerie Feldman, LSNC Staff Attorney

We never start out as attorneys, but rather we begin with a vision. We take a path, or two, that lands us where we are today. So when Jeff Galvin at Downey Brand suggested that Legal Services of Northern California create a summer program to involve emerging law students in public interest law the idea was appealing. It still is. What better way to give our community’s future legal professionals an opportunity to see law work at its most basic level defending the rights of the poor.

Downey Brand and River City Bank sponsored the June 11th, 2004, “Meet Your Local Legal Aid” gathering of second and third year law students. More than 30 students plus their mentors attended to tour Legal Services of Northern California and learn what we’re doing in public interest law. They toured LSNC offices, had a chance to break into small groups and ask questions. And of course pizza -- a staple legal services food -- was served.

Next year we hope to expand the program and provide an opportunity for law clerks from a variety of firms to work in collaboration with LSNC law clerks. Students are our future, their energy and enthusiasm are crucial to our work. We welcome you all to join us next June.

Downey Brand summer associate Janine Esquivel, LSNC Executive Director Gary Smith, Downey Brand partner Jeff Galvin, and Downey summer associate Janice Lai.