VLJ is pleased to recognize Eric Weinstock from Lowenstein Sandler LLP as our September Volunteer of the Month. Eric is Senior Counsel whose practice focuses on counseling clients in the development and implementation of their estate plans, including tax and non-tax issues. Additionally, he counsels fiduciaries in the administration of estates and trusts, and works with clients on the formation and management of charitable organizations.
Lowenstein has a long history of partnering with VLJ. A member of Lowenstein’s pro bono committee for about 10 years, Eric was instrumental in the recent expansion of VLJ’s estate planning services. He presented a CLE training to educate VLJ volunteers on the ins-and-outs of basic client estate planning such as wills, powers of attorney, and health care directives.
Eric also supervised one associate and four summer associates develop estate planning for five VLJ veteran clients, an initiative so successful that VLJ hopes to replicate it again in the fall with the firm’s first year associates.
Although it’s difficult to share particulars of cases given that estate planning work is so personal, individualized, and confidential, Eric notes, “It was fascinating to learn from one client about his family history in the United States, with a number of ancestors having served the country during the Civil War. It was inspiring hearing the pride he had in his family’s history of service, and how he continued the tradition by serving himself.”
Senior Staff Attorney Karen Robinson oversees VLJ’s estate planning program and calls Eric a lifeline. “Eric graciously stepped in on an emergent matter for a client who was very sick, dropping everything to ensure her documents were in order and final wishes met. Between his high quality service and warm sense of humor, Eric puts clients at ease and gives them much-needed peace of mind.” Eric likewise finds, “It is very rewarding when a client tells you they will be able to sleep better at night knowing that you helped them put a coherent estate plan in place.”
Eric recognizes that lawyers possess skills and knowledge that are as important to and needed by lower-income individuals as they are for high net worth clients. “If you are fortunate enough to have become a lawyer and secured a great place to practice, I think it is important to share your time and expertise to benefit those who otherwise would not have access to an attorney with your skills and expertise,” he says.
Furthermore, Eric believes the rewarding nature of engaging in pro bono work far outweighs whatever preconceived notion a lawyer might have about how much of a time burden such work might be. He shares, “The clients are grateful for your involvement, and you gain a sense of making a meaningful impact on the life of someone you have the privilege to get to know during the work. It’s a win-win.”
Having Eric as a VLJ volunteer is certainly a win-win for the organization and our clients. Thank you, Eric, for your invaluable leadership and expert mentorship.
