Marissa Collins beams with joy when her 10-year-old son, Aiden, focuses on his homework in his room. This heartwarming moment was made possible by the Veterans Legal Clinic at the Law School, which represented her in a 2023 custody battle. Her ex-husband wanted Aiden to stay in Jackson County, despite his struggles there. Now, thanks to the clinic’s intervention, Aiden excels academically, reading three grades above his previous level, and benefits from a dedicated school support team.
“He’s reached his goals,” Collins proudly shared about Aiden’s newfound love for learning. “He’s in his room reading. He had never done that before because he struggled, and now he likes attending school. His behavior has improved greatly.”
Collins, a Brighton resident and National Guard veteran, is among many helped by the clinic since it began in 2015. The clinic offers free legal aid to veterans in civil cases, including custody disputes and eviction defense. According to director Matthew Andres, many veterans struggle to afford legal services, despite their significant need.
“Many of our clients are hesitant to reach out to legal aid providers,” Andres explained. “They don’t feel like they are necessarily worthy of assistance from general legal aid or social service providers and don’t want to ask for anything extra from those organizations. But when there is an organization that is specifically dedicated to veterans, then they are more likely to take advantage of that service.”
As Michigan’s only veteran-focused civil legal service provider, the clinic covers 10 counties, aiding nearly half of the state’s veterans. While most clinics nationwide focus on veteran benefits, Michigan’s clinic addresses broader civil legal needs.
Andres emphasized the clinic’s profound impact, stating, “Every one of our veteran clients has been better off because of our services — whether we are successful in their case or not.” University of Michigan law students gain firsthand legal experience by representing clients under the guidance of Andres and clinical fellow Carrie Floyd.
Students tackle all aspects of client representation, from interviews to court appearances. Andres praised their dedication, noting, “They put in a lot of work and are very devoted to their clients.” The clinic turns away three cases for each one taken due to high demand. For some, limited financial resources prevent access to other legal aid, making the clinic an essential service.
The clinic’s influence extends beyond individual cases, evidenced by its role in changing Michigan law regarding food assistance for those with felony drug convictions. Bill Bennett, a veteran represented in a federal lawsuit against the state, shared his confidence, “I have faith in the University of Michigan Veterans Legal Clinic. I would seek their advice before seeing any other legal agency. Life is going well and I’m living in a better place.”
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