For this month’s Pro Bono Attorney Spotlight, we would like to recognize Beth Goldstein, from Sherin and Lodgen LLP. Beth has worked tirelessly to help her client on her road to finally becoming a permanent resident of the United States. Despite some challenges and an uphill battle, she has never stopped fighting for her client and was able to successfully obtain a green card for her client. We are truly inspired by Beth’s dedication, patience, tenacity, and zealous advocacy for her client, and we are so grateful for her support.

Why did you take a KIND case? 

I had experience with immigration law during law school and had worked with the Spanish speaking community for several years post law school. A colleague of mine had been doing pro bono immigration work and encouraged me to take “just one case”. Seven years later…and both my client and I have learned so much!

What have you learned from this experience or from your client?  

I’ve learned just how resilient people can be. My client first came to me when she was 13 years old, spoke no English, and had so few people she could trust in her life. She is now 19, living independently, in the workforce here in Boston, and hoping to continue her education. It’s been extremely rewarding to watch her grow up here and obtain her green card.

What would you tell other attorneys to encourage them to take a KIND case? 

Do not be afraid to take on a case. KIND can provide such great resources to help you support your client, and you can easily learn on the job. My case started in probate court, where I had zero prior experience, but I was able to learn on the go. I will never forget celebrating with my client when she was granted lawful permanent residence – the first thing she said was “we did it!”.

About KIND:

Kids in Need of Defense (KIND) is the preeminent international nongovernmental organization devoted to the protection of unaccompanied and separated children. KIND envisions a world in which every unaccompanied child on the move has access to legal representation and has their rights and well-being protected as they migrate alone in search of safety. 

Click here to visit KIND’s website.