2023 Equal Access to Justice Gala
Presented by Yankwitt LLP

Legal Services of the Hudson Valley’s Equal Access to Justice Gala, Presented by Yankwitt LLP, celebrates and honors the work of extraordinary individuals who have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to serving the public good and ensuring equal access to justice for all. As one of Westchester County’s most notable gatherings of policymakers, corporations, and thought leaders working together to close the justice gap, this event raises substantial revenue to benefit individuals seeking civil legal services who cannot afford an attorney when their basic needs are at stake.

This year, we have the pleasure of honoring Westchester County Executive George Latimer. Throughout his long and esteemed career as a public servant, County Executive George Latimer has always recognized the importance of ensuring that those most vulnerable members of our community are given an equal chance at obtaining justice.  Supporting funding for civil legal services and advocating for other innovative access to justice initiatives in Westchester have increased fairness in historically marginalized and underserved communities. Thus, we will proudly present the County Executive with our Champion of Justice Award at our Equal Access to Justice Gala. This award is bestowed upon individuals who- through legislative, philanthropic, or humanitarian efforts- have strived to ensure access to justice for all. His unwavering support of LSHV’s mission to provide high-quality counsel in civil matters for low-income individuals, families, and other vulnerable persons who do not have access to legal representation to maintain their basic needs and pursue equity through dismantling systemic oppression has impacted thousands of families and individuals throughout Westchester County- for that we honor County Executive George Latimer.

In addition to working with community leaders and organizations, LSHV has the privilege to work alongside dedicated Pro Bono Partners like Fried Frank. The firm has a proud history of representing individuals and organizations in need. Their pro bono and public service work tradition builds upon the record established by Walter Fried, Hans Frank, Sam Harris, Sargent Shriver, and Leslie Jacobson. Their notable efforts include work on behalf of the civil rights movement and with major institutions like the Peace Corps. LSHV hosts a Virtual Pro Bono Housing Advice Clinic every two weeks when clients who qualify for free legal services are scheduled for virtual appointments with pro bono attorneys to receive advice and counsel on their housing and eviction matters and to help them prepare for their court appearances.  Fried Frank’s pro bono attorneys offer advice and assist our clients in completing pro se forms to help raise their legal defenses as tenants, and/or they file motions seeking the appropriate relief in their cases. Fried Frank has partnered with us since the start of our clinic, and their volunteer attorneys have gone above and beyond to support our clients. We are proud to celebrate this Pro Bono partnership with our Access to Justice Award presentation.

With over 350 attendees from corporate, philanthropic, and legal communities, the gala highlights pressing legal issues faced by our most vulnerable populations, including Domestic Violence, Housing and Homelessness Prevention, Disability Advocacy, Elder Law, LGBTQ+ Advocacy, and more. In 2022, over 516,000 Hudson Valley residents were within 200% of the federal poverty guidelines and eligible for our services. Without LSHV and the generosity of our supporters, the people who come to us for help would have nowhere else to turn.

Our 2023 Equal Access to Justice Gala promises an evening filled with inspiring awardees, great food, and entertainment, including a highly anticipated client-centered presentation. Supporting our Gala is an investment in our communities. Please see below for details on how you can help provide Equal Access to Justice.