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?

Elizabeth: Approximately 12 years!

Tejash: What is your current role at Neighbors Link?

Elizabeth: I am currently the managing attorney of the Neighbors Link Community Law Practice which is the legal arm of Neighbors Link.

Tejash: This is an incredibly busy time at Neighbors Link. I was proud to partner with your team on some efforts. Can you talk about Neighbors Links’ work at this moment?

Elizabeth: Absolutely. Right now, our immigration legal services are more critical than ever. We are seeing increased demand from individuals and families navigating an uncertain and shifting immigration landscape. Our team is focused on providing direct legal representation and working on community education so that people are able to stay abreast of changes and understand available legal remedies. Community members can call our Legal Helpline, (914) 502-3377, Thursdays from 8AM -8PM to schedule a consultation.

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

Elizabeth: I have so many cases that have impacted me over the years, but one case that stands out is a DACA or Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals case. I initially assisted a young man in his application for DACA in 2014 because he was brought to the United States as a toddler. This program allowed him to work legally in the United States but required him to renew his status every two years. Over the years, I have watched him graduate from college, get training in coding and become a father. For many years he supported his two young US citizen daughters as a single father struggling to provide for their needs while living with the insecurity of his own immigration status – never knowing if the program would be rescinded and he would be subject to deportation. Luckily a few years ago he fell in love with and married his current wife and she was able to petition for him. A year later this young man received his permanent resident status and finally has the stability and security he has lived without his whole life. This case highlights to me the complexity of immigration law and how so many people work for years to obtain legal status in the United States.

Tejash: What is one thing that non-immigration practitioners should know about immigration law?

Elizabeth: One thing that non-immigration practitioners should know about immigration law is how significantly it intersects with many areas of legal practice in New York including family law, criminal law, health law and employment law. Because of the intersection of the law, there are opportunities and a need for collaboration across practice areas in order to provide the best possible outcome for clients.

Tejash: Who were some of your mentors?

Elizabeth: Obviously I consider Karin Anderson Ponzer, our director of Legal Services, to be a huge mentor. Her leadership and tutelage have absolutely molded me as an attorney and an advocate. Dan Hollis has also been instrumental in my career.

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

Elizabeth: Dan Hollis and the Westchester County Bar Foundation (“WCBF”) are responsible for my immigration career. After law school, I was provided with a Fellowship by the WCBF and was placed at the Pace Community Law Practice to work in immigration. This was my first foray into immigration law and I fell in love with the work.

Tejash: What is one of your guilty pleasures?

Elizabeth: True crime podcasts! There is something captivating about trying to understand the motives and piece together the clues to hopefully solve the case.

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

Elizabeth: I would say everyday. Because of how quickly and substantially immigration law is changing we are having to grow and learn in real time in order to stay up to date and zealously advocate for our clients.

Tejash: What is one of your future ambitions?

Elizabeth: I love to travel. I would love to travel to every state in the United States and experience their unique cultures and highlights.

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

Elizabeth: Early in my career there was a surge of unaccompanied migrant youth entering the United States due to violence in Central America. As such, much of my caseload was focused around working with vulnerable youth. This experience gave me practical training in the intersection of family and immigration law as many young people needed guardians or custodians. Additionally, it gave me early exposure to understanding the importance of trauma-informed legal advocacy.

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

Elizabeth: One of the best pieces of advice I received as a young attorney is to prioritize networking and connecting with other attorneys. Building relationships with colleagues has helped me stay informed about legal trends, gain different perspectives, and even connect clients with the right resources.

Tejash: What are some of your favorite things to do in Westchester County?

Elizabeth: Every year I look forward to the fall and spending my weekends at The Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze and ghost tours.

Tejash: What are some of your favorite meals/books/podcasts?

Elizabeth: My happy place is definitely at a Mexican restaurant. There is something therapeutic about margaritas and chips with salsa.

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

Elizabeth: Establishing boundaries around work is a priority for my mental and physical health. I also love planning fun activities for the team to help us connect with each other and take a break from our challenging responsibilities. Right now, I am planning a summer team builder for our legal team at Playland Park!