Through my pro bono work, I seek to use my legal expertise as a tool for positive change, ensuring that individuals like Lisa are not just heard, but also protected by the law, regardless of the language they speak or their country of origin. Our work here isn't just about legal victories; it's about restoring dignity and hope to someone who almost lost both.
Associate
Grecia A.
Rivas
Bridging Justice Gaps
in San Diego
Pro Bono Team
Jennifer Yoonjee Kim
Associate
Grecia A. Rivas
Associate
mintz
pro bono portfolio
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2023
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Pro bono service is at the heart of Mintz's culture and identity. Together, we provide individuals with life-changing assistance and support the nonprofit organizations that care for our communities.
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"Lisa," an elderly woman residing in a remote corner of San Diego, had minimal access to public transportation. Her grasp of both Spanish and English was limited, making her heavily reliant on a modest social security income to make ends meet. Seeking a new vehicle that would grant her the mobility and independence she so desperately needed, Lisa visited a local dealership.
Although Lisa emphasized her financial constraints to the salesman, he intentionally misled her into signing a contract requiring payments that stretched far beyond her capacity. When Lisa attempted to return the car, the salesman refused, and when she was unable to make the payments, the car was repossessed. With the financing company still relentlessly demanding payments and her credit score suffering, Lisa realized she needed help.
Lisa turned to the Legal Aid Society of San Diego (LASSD),, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing free legal services to lower-income San Diego residents and committed to advancing justice through effective, efficient, and vigorous legal advocacy. It was within this organization that Mintz attorneys Grecia Rivas and Jennifer Kim were introduced to the case.
Legal Aid Society of San Diego (LASSD)
Grecia and Jennifer embarked on a mission to correct the injustices Lisa had faced, and in October 2023, skillfully managed a tentative settlement on Lisa's behalf. Through their unrelenting advocacy, they negotiated a return of the original sum of money Lisa had invested in the car and the removal of the damaging entry from her credit record. Although the parties are still finalizing the draft settlement, this tentative agreement gives Lisa hope that justice is near.
Sebastian A. Navarro
Associate
Daniel T. Pascucci
Managing Member, San Diego Office