Name: Bridging Laymen and Law: CJWs in MLPs
Start: 2026-09-03T09:00:00-0500
End: 2026-09-03T10:00:00-0500

Thursday September 3, 2026 9:00am - 10:00am CDT

Medical-legal partnerships (MLPs) are designed to address legal problems before they become health-harming, yet their effectiveness often depends on the presence of Community Justice Workers (CJWs) as core members of the care team. This session will explore how CJWs, or non-attorney advocates, may strengthen MLPs by serving as trusted, community-based supports who help patients understand legal information, provide holistic navigation, and support accessible engagement with legal services. Presenters will discuss the potential role of CJWs within healthcare settings, how that role differs from attorneys and traditional support staff, and what considerations matter when integrating CJWs into an MLP model. Attendees will leave with a clearer understanding of where CJWs may add value, what guardrails are needed, and how this approach could support more effective and accessible service delivery.

Speakers

Susan Soto

Staff Attorney, HVL/AccessHealth Medical-Legal Partnership, Houston Volunteer Lawyers

Susan Soto is a licensed attorney with 15 years of experience in civil litigation. Prior to earning her law license, Susan was a teacher and principal in Texas public schools for almost 20 years. She has devoted her entire professional life to serving vulnerable communities and... Read More →

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2026 Poverty Law Conference

Susan Soto

Maria Jose Vallejo

America Malacara

Attendees (2)

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Success you have shared X tickets.

2026 Poverty Law Conference

Susan Soto

Maria Jose Vallejo

America Malacara

Attendees (2)

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