In this feature, Tejash V. Sanchala, Board Member and Employment Law Committee Co-Chair, interviews WCBA members about their experiences and insights. Tejash can be reached at: Tejash. Sanchala@gmail.com

Tejash: How long have you been a member of the WCBA?

Luis: I joined the WCBA as a law student in 2017, the same year I was chosen for the Westchester County Bar Foundation Public Interest Fellowship. Today, I serve as co-chair of the Immigration Law Committee, secretary of the Committee for Ethics and Professionalism, and co-lead one of the Mentor Circle Programs. Most recently, the Westchester County Human Rights Commission, the Westchester County Bar Association, and other local non-profits participated in Know Your Rights panel discussions on timely legal issues for the community.

Tejash: How did you decide to become an immigration attorney?

Luis: When I started law school, I was initially interested in criminal defense. I was drawn to the idea of standing up for individuals facing the weight of the legal system and ensuring that everyone had a fair chance at justice. However, everything changed when I began volunteering with the Pace Law Immigration Clinic under the late great Professor Vanessa Merton. Working alongside her, I witnessed firsthand the profound impact that immigration law has on people’s lives. I saw how complex, ever-changing policies could determine whether someone remained with their family, found safety, or was forced to return to danger. Through this experience, I became deeply passionate about community lawyering and advocating for our community members. I realized that immigration law requires fighting for due process and dignity, often against overwhelming odds.

Tejash: Can you share a memorable case that you worked on?

Luis: At My Sisters’ Place, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting survivors of domestic violence and human trafficking, I work as an immigration attorney, advocating on behalf of clients and helping them navigate the legal system to secure safety and stability. I recently represented a man who was a victim of human trafficking by his employer while working at a grocery store. His employer subjected him to horrific conditions—locking him inside the store at night, forcing him to work without pay through threats of physical harm and deportation due to his undocumented status.

After he was rescued by local authorities, I assisted him with his application for a T-Visa as a victim of trafficking, ensuring he had a pathway to lawful status. We also connected him with essential services, including shelter, counseling, and other critical support to help him recover from his trauma. Through this visa, this survivor now can rebuild his life in safety and with dignity, free from the fear that once controlled him. This case emphasizes the critical role of legal advocacy in protecting trafficking survivors. Without access to immigration relief and comprehensive support, many survivors remain trapped in cycles of exploitation and fear. By providing legal representation, we not only help them secure lawful status but also empower them to reclaim their independence and rebuild their lives.

Tejash: What might people be surprised to learn about you? 

Luis: I am a dad to two little boys, 1 and 3 years old, who keep me on my toes and make life both chaotic and amazing. They bring so much joy (and exhaustion!), but I would not trade it for anything. When I am not working, I enjoy playing squash and pickleball—both great ways to stay active and clear my mind. I am a first-generation American and the first in my family to graduate from college and go to law school, which has been a deeply meaningful journey for me.

Tejash: What is one of your guilty pleasures?

Luis: I love trying new restaurants and dining out with my wife—it is one of our favorite ways to explore different cultures and cuisines. Most recently, I attended a local Portuguese game dinner, where we had the chance to try wild boar, deer, and rabbit.

Tejash: When is the last time you were outside of your comfort zone? 

Luis: Recently, I had the opportunity to conduct a training for the Westchester Police Academy on behalf of My Sisters’ Place, speaking to a class of 43 new cadets. I trained them on human trafficking and the immigration humanitarian relief available to survivors, emphasizing the crucial role law enforcement plays in identifying and assisting victims. Stepping into that room, I wanted to ensure that I effectively communicated one key message: as new police officers, they have a duty to represent and protect all members of our community with dignity and respect, including undocumented individuals and trafficking survivors.

Tejash: What is one of your future ambitions?

Luis: One of my big goals is to open my own law firm, creating a space where immigrant and marginalized communities can access the legal support they deserve. I have also thought about running for office or becoming a judge, where I could make an even bigger impact and advocate for justice on a larger scale.

Tejash: What is the most used app on your phone and why?

Luis: Currently, the most used app on my phone is Signal. There is a chatroom where immigration practitioners and nonprofit organizations share real-time updates on changing immigration policies and practices. With the law constantly evolving, staying informed is crucial, and this platform allows me quick access to important news. And as always, Outlook for emails—because there is no escaping the inbox!

Tejash: Is there a particular experience or training that helped build your skill set as an immigration attorney?

Luis: One of the most impactful experiences that helped build my skill set as an immigration attorney was my time at the Pace Law Immigration Clinic. Through the clinic, I gained invaluable real-world experience navigating complex immigration cases while directly advocating for individuals facing life-changing legal challenges. The combination of hands-on casework, legal research, and client interactions pushed me to continue this career path.

Tejash: What advice would you give to your younger self?

Luis: Start building your network as early as possible and keep nurturing those relationships. The connections you make—whether in school, internships, or community work—will be the ones you turn to for advice, opportunities, and support throughout your career. It is not just about who you know, but about fostering genuine relationships that can open doors and help you grow both personally and professionally.

Tejash: Wellness is an important issue for all members. The WCBA’s Task Force on Well-Being recently issued a report with its recommendations. How do you manage your physical and/or mental health with such a busy practice area? 

Luis: One of the biggest things I do to nurture my mental health in this area of law is prioritizing work-life balance. I make it a point to spend quality time with my family, completely unplugging by turning off my phone, notifications, and any connection to work. I have learned over the years that in immigration law or any law, the work never truly ends, and there will always be another case, another deadline, another urgent matter.