Today was my second day
volunteering within the legal department of NO/AIDS Task Force. NO/AIDS is an
organization, which provides a variety of essential services to people with
HIV/AIDS. The services they provide includes meal delivery to clients who are
unable to obtain food on their own, as well as counseling and anonymous HIV
testing. I worked in the legal department of NO/AIDS, which offers a variety of
legal services to people living with HIV/ AIDS. Several issues the firm
encounters includes cases dealing with discrimination against people living
with HIV/AIDS, helping clients prepare wills and trusts, as well as providing
affidavits to clients to allow them to receive public assistance.
Today I researched and drafted a
memo regarding the procedures for filing a complaint using a pseudonym in the
Eastern District of Louisiana. It is important that client’s information
remains private when they file claims in court. I also conducted client
intakes. The majority of the clients needed assistance renewing their
Affidavits, which allow them to receive public benefits. I was first trained on
the intake process. I reviewed the forms the firm uses to document client
information with an attorney and a paralegal.
After I sat in as an attorney
conducted a client interview, I completed the process with another legal
intern. It was a great experience to help clients complete essential legal
documents that will allow them to obtain public assistance. During these
interviews, clients shared their hardships and experiences. It was rewarding to
feel that I was having a direct impact in their life. The population, which
NO/AIDS serves, is one that has commonly been overlooked and is in so much need
of assistance. The clients appreciated the aid, and the attorneys and staff
were a pleasure to work with.
Raziya Brumfield
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