Guiding a Young Life from Hardship to Hope

by Julia A. Harrison, Holland & Knight LLP

When we began representing our client, things at home were tense. She and her mom, who was named in the charges, were struggling to get along. They lived alone in a tough neighborhood, her mom was between jobs, and school had become a daily battle.

We worked with our client to guide her through the court’s requirements which included, among other things, community service, an essay about her goals, and a letter of apology to her mom. It was through that essay that we began to understand our client was a very smart, spunky and determined young woman with big dreams and an adventurous spirit.

As the weeks went by, we watched an incredible transformation. A school transfer made a huge difference, and her attendance improved right away. Her mom found full-time work and even agreed to her daughter’s biggest wish, a phone of her own. The two began rebuilding their relationship, one step at a time.

In the end, our client completed every court requirement, her charges were dismissed, and their bond was stronger than ever—they even showed up to court one time with matching red hair!

Being her lawyer was very rewarding and showed me how advocacy can turn hardship into hope.