Meet Our CVLS Coordinators

Malerie Ma Roddy

Tell us about your most rewarding experience working with CVLS.

We worked with a family that had gone through a lot of trauma – they were undocumented residents, one family member had been assaulted by another, and there was a young child’s health and education at the center of all the litigation. Because of the family situation, there was no one who could consent to medical services that the child needed. We worked with the family to sort through options regarding divorce, custody, and guardianship, and helped them move forward so that the child could receive the medical help he needed and so that the family could move forward with their lives.

What is one thing lawyers should know about the power of pro bono?

Sometimes even the simplest tasks that a lawyer takes on can help a pro bono client in the most meaningful way. Even if it’s just making a phone call or taking the time to speak with the client, there’s so much good that a lawyer can do.

How long have you served as a CVLS coordinator at Schiff?

About 1.5 years

Ariel Hairston

What attracted you to take on this role at Schiff with CVLS?

When I was a summer at Schiff, I shadowed one of our attorneys during his rotation at the CVLS clinic. I was impressed with the firm’s dedication to providing avenues for its lawyers to serve our community. After observing the positive role we can play in the lives of our community members, I knew I wanted to be a part of the Schiff/CVLS partnership upon my return to the firm. 

What is one thing lawyers should know about the power of pro bono?

It’s a privilege to serve all of our clients; it’s rewarding in a different way when you can help someone who otherwise can‘t afford legal services solve deeply personal legal problems.

How long have you served as a CVLS coordinator at Schiff?

Two months

Sarah Angelino

What makes Schiff’s adoption of the Rogers Park clinic different than other pro bono work?

It’s always been important to Schiff that we have a truly neighborhood-based clinic. We’re really trying to serve people where they are.

What is rewarding about working at the CVLS clinic?

Somebody who went 14 or 15 years ago and might not go all the time anymore will still remember that experience and remember sitting down with a client for an interview and taking their case all the way through to final judgment. That’s a really cool experience to have. And it’s something that across time has been shared by so many people.