From L to R: Arturo Gonzales, Interns Marisela Bernal and Ilene Reynoso.
Legal interns play a crucial role at CRLA, helping bring justice to rural communities. Law students gain practical experience and a deeper understanding of the issues facing low income populations in rural California. CRLA supporter Arturo Gonzalez believes so strongly in the importance of the internship experience that he generously underwrote two fellowships for Latino law students in 2017. Click here for an interview with Arturo!
Arturo Gonzalez, partner at Morrison & Foerster and a nationally recognized litigator, is a long-time CRLA supporter.
I was motivated to underwrite a Law Fellowship because I used to pick peaches in the Central Valley. I respect what CRLA does to help farmworkers. We all need to give back where we can. There is still a tremendous need for Latino lawyers. Many law students have problems finding summer legal jobs. If we all contribute, we can help students pay their rent, add something to their resume, and help Latino law students in need. A Fellowship provides a work experience that is critical if students are to progress in their careers. Watching other lawyers and staff interact with clients and opposing counsel gives law students an important glimpse into the legal market. CRLA is the ideal organization to support because there is an increasing need for energetic and committed people who want to serve the poor. Now more than ever, we have to ensure that migrant workers and their families are treated fairly. I want to encourage other lawyers to consider underwriting a fellowship. Many of us are fortunate to have more than we need. But our time is limited. By funding a fellowship, we pay it forward--giving law students an opportunity to help those in need.