Theresa was born in the USSR. She was brought to the US by her mother as a teenager and lacked a lawful immigration status. Eventually, Theresa fell in love with and married a U.S. Citizen. Theresa’s husband became severely abusive towards her, physically, emotionally and financially. Although he promised to file for her to get a green card, he never did. Theresa eventually fled from her husband, but struggled to support herself and their children without status. Ann helped Theresa file an application under VAWA - the Violence Against Women Act - without any involvement of her abusive husband. The VAWA application was approved, allowing Theresa to obtain for a green card. Once she has her green card for 5 years, Theresa will be eligible to become a U.S. Citizen.​ Read More Immigration Success Stories

Marco the father of two special needs minor children who were receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI) for about a year before the benefits were inexplicably reduced and eventually cut-off. For months, Marco tried to obtain answers from Social Security Administration (SSA) and have his children’s benefits reinstated. Adding insult to injury, SSA was trying to recoup money previously disbursed, claiming there had been an overpayment. After about 2 months of trying to resolve the issue alone, Marco found it difficult to pay his rent and was tired of opening collection notices.  He then came to CLA for assistance.​

CLA represented Marco in a Reconsideration Hearing before the SSA. At the hearing, CLA was able to provide proof that the benefits were wrongfully terminated.  Marco's children were eligible, and had always been eligible, for the benefits they were receiving. As a result, the original amount was reinstated and the overpayment was waived. Within one month of contacting CLA, Marco's family had their much-needed income restored and no longer needed to worry about the government trying to collect an erroneous debt. Read More Public Benefits Success Stories.

Samuel is a disabled man who lives in Manhattan. He was facing a major surgery and wanted to get his papers in order beforehand. Ann met Samuel at his home and discussed his advance planning needs. She prepared a Will, Health Care Proxy and Power of Attorney for Samuel, which were all executed at his home. Samuel was grateful that his documents were in place before his surgery, eliminating one big worry for him. His surgery was a success.  ​Read More Wills and Advance Planning Success Stories.

The Wallaces are the loving parents of Billy. Billy was born with several medical conditions that made him severely disabled with cognitive deficiencies and a limited ability to communicate. Once he turned 18, Billy was legally presumed to be able to make his own decisions, but, in reality, this was not possible. CLA represented the Wallaces in Surrogate's Court. They became Billy's legal guardian and now have the full authority they need to take care of all of Billy's needs in the future.  Read More Success Stories on Other Legal Matters.