Josephine* is a close victim of human trafficking. She married an American citizen whom she had dated many years before they reconnected. Her husband promised her the world and even applied for her immigration status. Once he brought her to the United States, he denied her access to the outside world and limited her access to...Read More
Lance Corporal Claude served four years active duty in the Marine Corp. and about a year in the Army from 2002-2006 and 2008-2009 respectively. While in the Marines, Claude was deployed to Iraq for 11 months. Upon being discharged from active duty in 2009, Claude lived a fairly-normal and independent life using his GI Bill...Read More
I am honored to be the 2019 Board Chair for the Legal Aid Programs in Broward. As I take the gavel, I am renewing my personal and professional commitment to continue to serve the south Florida community. Several years ago, I accepted a position on this Board of Directors to help further my dream that...Read More
As the Director of Special Projects at Legal Aid, Sharon Bourassa selects, pursues and prosecutes significant cases that impact the low-income community. These cases generally seek equitable relief, damages, and attorney’s fees and costs. Sharon has been at attorney at Legal Aid since 1981, however, her interest and compassion for the low-income community began long...Read More
Scott Owens is with the law firm of Scott D. Owens, P.A., a consumer law practice in Hollywood, Florida. As one of Florida’s most recognized consumer advocates, Scott represents consumers with regard to violations of the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA), violations of the Florida Consumer Collection Practices Act (FCCPA), violations of the Telephone...Read More
Marta* was 15 years old and did not speak a word of English when she first came to Legal Aid. She suffered severe daily physical abuse from family members in Guatemala. She worked and saved money so that she could escape. Finally, one day after her father beat her severely, she left and began her...Read More
Sara* is homeless. She lives in a minivan that is parked nightly in a church parking lot. She recently wanted a divorce from her husband, Don* as they had been separated after 2 ½ years of marriage. She admitted to a background that includes past drug abuse. But that didn’t justify the physical abuse Don...Read More
The relationship between the Legal Aid Programs in Broward and the Broward County Bar Association (BCBA) goes back to the inception of Legal Aid in 1973. We work closely on a number of levels and our partnership with BCBA is invaluable. Both LAS and CCLA are in the 100% Membership Club and regularly participate in...Read More
The Honorable Ronald J. Rothschild has served on our joint Board of Directors since 2013 and is completing his third and final term at the end of December. His wisdom, experience and compassion for the clients we serve has been an incredible asset to both the Board and our staff. Judge Ron, as he is...Read More
Erin Hantman Weiss joined Legal Aid Service of Broward County in March 2018. Her practice is focused on affordable housing and community development law, where she represents nonprofit affordable developers in Broward County. Before joining Legal Aid, Erin worked as a transactional attorney representing local businesses in various industries. She wanted to take the skills...Read More
