Winston & LVMH Collaborate on Successful Day of Pro Bono Service in New York City

On November 8, 2018, the Winston New York office hosted an in-house pro bono program in collaboration with firm client LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton SE (LVMH). 

The dynamic full-day program featured legal training, hands-on client counseling, and informal networking amongst Winston and LVMH volunteers. City Bar Justice Center’s project leader, Ramona Morel, along with assistance from Diane Valle, led an engaging training session to prepare volunteers in assisting clients with the preparation of pro se bankruptcy filings. Once fully trained, teams consisting of both LVMH and Winston representatives were assigned a client to counsel in the Fresh Start Clinic.

Distressed by dire financial situations and debts, the goal of the Fresh Start Clinic is to empower pro bono clients with their pro se filings for a successful outcome and ultimately an economic fresh start. By guiding clients through daunting paperwork involved in a Chapter 7 Bankruptcy, volunteers provided invaluable counsel and support to fellow New Yorkers in need of help. Team members engaged in collaborative problem solving and strategic thinking by addressing concerns of their assigned clients. Participating clients shared feedback of gratitude for the volunteers, with one client in tears of relief as she left stating, “You have no idea how much of a heavy burden has been lifted off my shoulders right now. I could never do this alone and I’m thankful my team helped me today.”

To conclude such a positive day of collaborative learning and pro bono service, a surprise Moët Champagne Bar was revealed for all participating volunteers. The conclusion to the day allowed participants the chance to mingle, share a toast, and provide feedback on personal experiences from the program. Glasses were raised and cheers had, as LVMH’s General Counsel, Louise Firestone, presented her touching reflections on the impactful day and thanked the LVMH legal team, as well as Winston volunteers, for making it such a special day in New York.