Pro Bono Spotlight: Attorney Laurel Bretta
After falling into massive debt due to an extensive health issue, “F.D.” contacted Community Legal Aid’s (CLA) Pro Bono Programs for assistance with filing for bankruptcy. Pro Bono Coordinator Anita Conte sent out a call to action to the Worcester-based bankruptcy panel, and Attorney Laurel Bretta immediately stepped up.
Attorney Bretta has been practicing law since 1986 and has been a valued member of CLA’s pro bono panel for many years. Attorney Bretta was raised in a family where service was part of active community participation. As a volunteer, Attorney Bretta “witnessed people living on the edge and how a small gesture of support could make a difference in someone’s life.” Attorney Bretta attended Wheaton College in Norton, Massachusetts and graduated from Boston College Law School in 1985. In the mid 1980s, she was appointed to the Executive Board of the Somerville Homeless Coalition and still volunteers her time to the adult shelter at Christmas. Attorney Bretta worked as a tax attorney for almost three years before starting her own practice in 1989. Attorney Bretta has been a valued member of the CLA pro bono panel for many years, and this past year her dedication and contributions were truly exceptional in handling five pro bono Chapter 7 referrals from CLA.
When client “F.D.” was asked for feedback on his experience working with Attorney Bretta, he was more than willing to share his experience. He stated:
“I called Attorney Bretta along the way with different questions or concerns, and she always took my calls, but more than that she really took the time to listen to me. She was very compassionate and responsive. I can’t say enough positive things about my experience.”
Additionally, when asked what, if anything, did the case do to help him or change his life, “F.D.” responded: “Getting a bankruptcy removed so much stress from my life that was caused by my illness. I was so surprised at how well Attorney Bretta treated me by coming out from Boston and taking time out from her day to help someone in need.
