This month, we would like to highlight Zach E, a LiveHelp Volunteer for LawHelpNY.
LawHelpNY.org helps New Yorkers with low-paying employers to solve their legal problems. Our real-time online chat service, powered by dedicated volunteers, helps guide users to self-help materials, legal aid organizations, and court information. Zach shares his story and recent experiences as a LiveHelp volunteer.
Please share a little about yourself and your journey through law school.
I just graduated from Brooklyn Law School. I was involved in numerous clubs experiencing law, externing for many firms, gaining real experience in real estate, family law, and trust in states. The different fields of experience led me to want to volunteer at LiveHelp since I got a good grasp on a lot of different areas of law and being able to use that to help people was something I wanted to do.
What valuable skills do you acquire as a LiveHelp Operator?
The biggest skill I acquired was being with people and understanding their problems through legal systems. There is a real person at the end of the line and yes, they want legal help but they also want to know that everything is going to be okay. I developed a good listening skill by understanding their problem and giving them effective assistance in both the legal aspect and personal. A lot of these people just needed direction and I was able to give them that and learned a lot about myself.
How has this experience shaped your personal and/or professional growth?
It's taught me a lot on how to deal with clients and people who need assistance. A lot of people who contact LiveHelp don’t have the means to contact private lawyers. I learned how to speak with those who are not familiar with the legal field. Helping them to navigate the situation they are dealing with will teach me how to deal with clients in the future. Being able to talk to people that are going through tough times helps you grow as a person.
What wisdom would you impart to those considering volunteering?
I would definitely tell them to volunteer with LiveHelp and really jump in right away and never hesitate. Once I dove in and started connecting with people - it was really rewarding. I would give the advice of really giving it your all, these people do really need your help. Even if you couldn't give advice they were appreciative and when you’re done you know you helped people who needed it.
Thank you, Zach!