The College of Law’s Betty and Michael D. Wohl Veterans Legal Clinic (VLC) has been awarded a Justice for Heroes grant by the New York State Department of Veterans’ Services. This grant will allow the VLC to provide legal services to veterans in Central New York. The College of Law is one of five law schools in New York state to receive this recognition.
“This grant will enable the VLC to build upon its 10-year track record of delivering exceptional level services and representation to the veteran community and their families,” says Beth Kubala, executive director of the Office of Clinical Legal Education, director of the VLC, teaching professor in the College of Law and a U.S. Army veteran.
“This grant program demonstrates New York state’s dedication to improving the lives of veterans and their ongoing support of law school outreach programs.”
With this funding, the VLC plans to expand its legal support for local veterans and launch a new initiative for military-connected students, faculty, and staff at Syracuse University. The grant will also enhance the College’s ability to provide legal representation in areas such as VA health and disability benefits while training future veteran-focused legal advocates.
“The Veterans Legal Clinic exemplifies our commitment to experiential learning, community service, and public interest law,” says Terence J. Lau L’98, dean of the College of Law. “We are proud of the clinic’s impact and grateful to the Department of Veterans’ Services for supporting this important work.”
“Working in the VLC has been one of the most meaningful experiences of my law school journey,” says Raul Rosique L’27, a student attorney and U.S. Navy veteran. “This grant will help ensure more veterans get the legal support they deserve while giving students like me the chance to serve those who’ve served our country.”
The VLC represents veterans and their families in claims for VA benefits and military discharge upgrades. Student attorneys gain hands-on experience with real clients under faculty supervision.
