Attorney Jessica Butcaris–an Associate in Wiggin & Dana LLC’s Litigation Department and co-chair of the firm’s Pro Bono Committee –began volunteering for the Connecticut Veterans Legal Center in 2017. Since then, she has assisted veteran clients on a variety of issues, including eviction. Most recently, Attorney Butcaris helped veteran, Mr. M.D., obtain his security deposit after a long battle with his landlord.

When Mr. M.D. first came to CVLC, he had been struggling to secure stable housing. Serious mold infestation in his apartment resulted in a series of health issues. His landlord refused to return Mr. D’s security deposit, instead only offering substandard temporary housing. Without that security deposit, Mr. D could not afford to secure a healthy place to live.

CVLC matched Mr. M.D. with Attorney Butcaris. Not only was she able to secure his security deposit, she was even able to negotiate additional funds to compensate Mr. M.D. for the hardships he faced during this battle to obtain his deposit. Mr. M.D. was able to move to more stable housing immediately.

“Get involved immediately! Colleagues work together so there is no specialty needed. It’s the least we can do for those men and women who served our country.”

Attorney Butcaris believes in supporting veteran causes and encourages other attorneys to get involved with CVLC’s pro bono work: “Get involved immediately! Colleagues work together so there is no specialty needed. It’s the least we can do for those men and women who served our country.”

Recent studies indicate that 34% of veterans with at least one disability live in poverty. Veterans make up 7% of the general population, but 12% of homeless Americans are veterans. 80% of CVLC’s clients have one or more disability and more than half have experienced homelessness.

Our staff and volunteers actively work every day to reduce these disparities and ensure that all veterans have stable and secure housing.

Thank you to Attorney Butcaris and all our volunteers who offer their time and services to our disabled veteran clients. Legal representation is life-changing for veterans facing homelessness and mental illness.

CVLC could not do our work without our volunteers who prioritize veteran justice. Thank you!