Pro Bono Adventures
Featured Volunteer: Erin Smith
December 10, 2025
Colorado Lawyer is spreading tales of pro bono adventures to highlight the impact that pro bono work can have on someone’s life. This month’s featured volunteer is Erin Smith.
Erin’s Story
I represented a family seeking asylum through the Rocky Mountain Immigrant Advocacy Network. The Garcias fled Venezuela after government forces tried to take their 6-year-old daughter, Daniela, right from her father’s arms during a vigil. They were then targeted with threats and surveillance in retaliation for Mrs. Garcia’s political work against the Maduro regime. When they arrived here, Daniela was still traumatized, with nightmares and panic attacks. The family was in expedited removal proceedings, allowing little time to prepare a complex case.
I first petitioned the court for more time. Then the Garcias and I got to work. Despite the language barrier, we built a strong connection, thanks to a kind and skilled interpreter. During each conversation, the Garcias shared their deep faith and their hope that their children could grow up in safety.
I recognized that Daniela was too young and traumatized to testify, so we found a psychological evaluator. They too worked pro bono. The trauma-informed evaluation gave voice to Daniela’s experience and supported our successful motion to excuse the children from testifying.
At the hearing, Mrs. Garcia bravely told their story through tears, and the judge granted them asylum. The Garcias broke down in tears of relief, thanking God, and hugging me in gratitude. We then worked together for their work permits and green cards. They are now employed, and the children are attending school!
I feel honored to have been able to support this family during a vulnerable and frightening moment in their lives, and especially to have given three children the chance to pursue their lives in peace.
If you have a pro bono story to share, please contact Casey Frank at letters@caseyfrank.com. Names and details have been changed to protect the identity of the parties receiving assistance.
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