Knudson School of Law VLEG Clinic Provides Legal Services to Veterans and Their Families
The organization’s goal is to provide free legal services and advice to military veterans and their families. They offer this support bi-annually, once in the fall in the Black Hills and once in the spring in and around the Sioux Falls area.
“The clinics are an invaluable resource for veterans and their families for access to legal services,” Connor Hickman, president of VLEG, said. “It was an easy and accessible method for them to get their questions answered.”
As a military service member himself, Hickman, a second-year law student, finds it rewarding to help fellow service members in the area.
“I truly love being able to help veterans and service members with their legal needs. One of the main reasons I came to law school was to be able to help others, so VLEG is an amazing opportunity to do that,” Hickman said.
There are many examples of what the clinic helps with each year, including answering questions on criminal, family and contract-related issues and executing wills and medical power of attorney forms.
“Anytime we can give back to the community I think we should. VLEG is one of the tools to do that. We are growing our knowledge and legal skillset, so VLEG is just one of the ways we can serve those who served us,” Hickman said.
“This service provided by VLEG and the law school are truly amazing," said Mitchell VanDeKamp, a VLEG participant. "I was able to come in today and get free legal help with a contract question. I contacted six law firms in the area trying to get a few simple questions answered and none of them had time to help me. I came in today and had everything squared away within 30 minutes. I hope this service can continue to grow and spread to other communities around the area. Thank you to everyone involved in the clinic."
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