The employees of LSNJ are committed to public service and helping low-income individuals in NJ acquire legal assistance and advice in civil concerns. Working at LSNJ provides a positive impact on the community and creates tangible change in people's lives. Clients submitted online web applications or called in to our hotline, meaning each day had different clients with different issues. This provided exposure to a variety of civil legal concerns and direct, personal communication with clients.
What I wish was different
After finalizing client's applications and checking if they are income eligible for LSNJ's services, clients are scheduled with attorneys. Once this is done, I never got the chance to follow a person's legal problems or learn of the outcome of their issue.
Advice
Be prepared to navigate angry and upset clients. These are real people with serious problems that have little choice and guidance to solve these problems. For some of them, LSNJ is their only hope. You must be extremely calm and patient with clients as emotions run high. Also, don't be afraid to ask the supervisors and other attorneys questions. They understand that civil legal issues can be complex and are willing to answer any of your questions!
