The Betty and Michael D. Wohl Veterans Legal Clinic (VLC) at the College of Law has been providing essential legal services to veterans since its establishment in 2015. The clinic, run by law students under the guidance of experienced faculty, assists veterans in navigating the complex process of obtaining disability benefits from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).
Beth Kubala, executive director of the Office of Clinical Legal Education and director of the VLC, emphasizes the dual benefit of this initiative: “Our law students get a chance to get into the legal practice, taking everything they’ve learned and put it into practice working on real cases with real clients with real challenges.” She adds that this opportunity allows students to make a significant impact by helping veterans secure their entitled VA medical care and disability benefits.
The VLC collaborates with community partners such as the Onondaga County Veterans Service Agency and Syracuse VA Medical Center. These organizations refer veterans whose claims have been denied multiple times. Annie Mancilla, director of the Onondaga County Veterans Service Agency, notes, “There’s a great collaboration between our teams,” highlighting how these partnerships help handle complex claims efficiently.
In addition to its regular services, two years ago, the VLC received a Legal Services for Homeless Veterans grant from the VA. This funding supports legal assistance for homeless veterans or those at risk. The clinic works closely with facilities like Altamont House to address these needs.
Sarah Simon-Patches ’24 shares her experience working on a case where she helped a veteran receive his full share of benefits after being initially denied. She states that without such resources provided by clinics like VLC, many veterans would struggle to navigate their claims successfully.
Seth Owens, who joined VLC in 2023 after serving as a physical therapist for service members, reflects on his role: “You have to bring this mindset to every interaction with a client that I’m going to know everything I can about your case.”
Simon-Patches’ work inspired her to join the U.S. Army Judge Advocate General’s Corps. She acknowledges Professor Kubala’s influence: “This program wouldn’t be what it is without the work that Professor Kubala does.”
Kubala concludes by expressing pride in her students’ achievements: “It amazes me every day the work that comes out of the clinic.” Her leadership continues to inspire future advocates dedicated to supporting veterans through legal means.
