“My service-oriented perspective was shaped through hands-on legal aid and continues to define my work across every setting—whether advocating for tenants facing eviction, investigating human rights violations, or supporting the development of accessible legal frameworks. These experiences have shown me that service is not simply a phase—it is a professional ethic.”
Lilit’s path to law school has its roots in a service year with JusticeCorps. The program trains undergraduates and recent graduates to provide direct service and neutral assistance to self-represented litigants in one of the many court-based self-help centers across her home state. In this role, Lilit worked alongside attorneys to assist domestic violence survivors, the elderly, and tenants facing uninhabitable living conditions from low socioeconomic communities in filing petitions for restraining orders and answers to unlawful detainers. This role expanded her understanding of the complex barriers, such as language obstacles, financial hardship, and social stigma, that often prevent self-represented litigants from effectively asserting their rights.
“My service year taught me the importance of meeting people where they are, both in their understanding of legal systems and in their emotional readiness to seek help. I learned how empathy, patience, and clear communication can turn intimidating processes into empowering ones. Often working through language barriers and the litigants’ fear of retaliation, I listened closely to present their stories accurately and with dignity, forging trust one step at a time. These experiences shaped how I connect with others across all settings.”
Today, Lilit draws upon her service year experience in pursuit of her Juris Doctorate in law school. Whether conducting pro bono legal aid or applying legal analysis in the classroom, the skills and principles she developed during her service year guide her approach and understanding of the people and communities she serves.
Through volunteering at a local legal aid clinic, Lilit helps provide free legal services to low-income self-represented litigants in the community. Alongside other volunteer attorneys, paralegals, and law students, Lilit conducts intake meetings and helps draft materials for community members as they navigate legal proceedings.
Her experiences in the classroom and in her community has led Lilit to a judicial externship for the United States District Court in her home state and as a contributor to her university’s Human Rights Center.
“As I continue my legal career, I’d like to contribute to a future where the law serves as a tool for protection, empowerment, and the advancement of a more accessible legal system.”
About the Service Year Alums Awards
The Service Year Alums Awards recognize outstanding alums across the national service community for their contributions during their service years and beyond. This diverse network is composed of AmeriCorps Alums, Returned Peace Corps Volunteers and alums from various service year programs across the country.
In 2025, the Service Year Alums Awards are all about celebrating this life-changing experience, recognizing alums who embraced the lessons, skills, and connections gained during their service year to pursue meaningful careers and positively impact their communities.
