Ericka O’Sullivan has been a pro bono attorney since 2021, providing one-time consultations to clients and taking full-representation pro bono cases. She is diligent, hard-working, and a joy to work with. Thanks, Ericka, for your pro bono service!
Why did you choose to volunteer with ALSC?
After clerking for several years, I was excited to participate in local pro bono opportunities. My work connected me to ALSC through the Attorney of the Day Program, which makes volunteering easy and manageable. Through this program, I receive referrals and provide advice during one hour consultations. Additionally, a colleague and I took on full representation of a pro bono client (also referred through ALSC) who needed assistance in a foreclosure action.
What are some of your experiences at ALSC that have made a positive difference in the lives of others and/or the community?
With the Attorney of the Day program, I have advised clients on how to obtain various services—including medical bill assistance and unemployment payments—negotiate with debt collection entities, and take next steps following entry of a judgment. I also prepared referrals and recommendations for those requiring additional assistance and formal representation.
My colleague and I represented a pro bono client who purchased a home and was then joined in an on-going foreclosure proceeding involving the property. With the assistance of a district court judge, we were able to negotiate a settlement with the parties to keep our client and their family housed. We also followed up on our client’s application with Alaska Housing Finance Corp. and advised our client on basic tax compliance.
How do you think your experiences with ALSC will benefit you in the future?
I find volunteering with ALSC to be incredibly gratifying. I enjoy being able to help individuals navigate complex systems and problem solve. The opportunity to engage in one-on-one client interaction and to appear at hearings and in mediation as a newer attorney has been great experience as well.
What do you do when you are not volunteering with ALSC?
I work for the law firm Lane Powell, and I try to get outdoors as much as possible—including running, hiking, and snowboarding.