Conducted research on international humanitarian and human rights laws’ protections for the environment during periods of armed conflict, as well as climate change’s impact on the frequency and severity of modern warfare. Wrote and presented articles and research papers about phenomena like climate induced-migration and ecocide; how existing laws can be used to restrict such activity and protect affected populations; and how international and domestic laws can and should be reformed to provide stronger protections. Also, conducted research on environmental injustice, including how pollution and damage to the environment affect certain populations in amplified ways. Redesigned the American Red Cross’ Exploring Humanitarian Law program, which aimed to provide educators with a template to teach IHL to students. Assisted my colleagues with the research and outreach for numerous international humanitarian law dissemination campaigns and the development of the American Red Cross’ 2022 Clara Barton IHL Competition.

Staff Attorney with NVLSP’s Lawyers Serving Warriors® Project, developing legal strategy for and advising volunteer attorneys representing veterans during the Disability Evaluation System; as well as before the Board for Corrections of Military Records, the Physical Disability Board of Review and the Board of Veterans’ Appeals. Represent Vietnam War Veterans and their family members in the multibillion dollar class action lawsuit Nehmer v. U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, which provides compensation for disabilities developed as a result of exposure to Agent Orange during military service.

Researched for and prepared motions and memoranda concerning client’s legal defenses, such as: claims of self-defense; unduly suggestive identification procedures; suppression of evidence; suppression of statements made to police after invoking the right to an attorney; etc. Met with clients in order to review evidence and help communicate legal strategy. Attended client meetings and court proceedings in order to best assist senior attorneys in developing effective strategy.

Assisted the Assistant United States Attorneys with the prosecution of international and domestic narcotics traffickers in front of both the United States District and Circuit Courts, in Miami, by preparing motions and memoranda on issues ranging from compulsion of production of evidence to the dismissal of an appeal. Prepared legal and policy memoranda on complex issues facing the office, such as the constitutionality of certain forms of searches in airports, as well as searches of vessels suspected of trafficking narcotics in international waters, etc.

Conducted legal research and writing on criminal, administrative and civil matters, including disbursement of social security funds, international tort claims and transnational crime. Attended numerous court proceedings, taking notes for the judge’s review. Consulted with judge on points of law.