Diane Claussen, Volunteer Lawyers for Justice July 2021 volunteer of the month
We are excited to recognize and honor Diane Claussen, a longtime volunteer with VLJ’s Debt Relief Legal Program (DRLP). Diane is a Case Manager at Lowenstein Sandler LLP, primarily supporting its bankruptcy practice with chapter 11 filings, creditor committee work, and bankruptcy litigation. Diane first started volunteering with VLJ over a decade ago, when Lowenstein partnered with another major VLJ supporter, Merck, to provide chapter 7 bankruptcy services to VLJ’s clients.
As a volunteer, one of Diane’s goals is to destigmatize bankruptcy for those saddled with debt. She finds that clients often feel nervous and even guilty about their financial situations. And while Diane and the attorneys are ultimately retained to provide legal counsel, she also finds herself providing another type of service: an empathetic ear. Diane recalls one elderly client who was extremely embarrassed about filing for bankruptcy –she confided that she often rolled pennies to use at the supermarket, rather than use a credit card, because she feared not being able to pay the balance at the end of the month. After encountering many stories like this, Diane concludes, “sometimes you just need to be a person whom the client can rely on…they need to know we’re here for them.” In fact, Diane finds that not being an attorney actually helps her when working with our clients. Some clients may find senior partners a bit intimidating, but with Diane’s support they are able to create an affirming atmosphere for all.
“Diane has been referred to as ‘legal valium’ by one of her former VLJ clients. Her professionalism, coupled with her approachable demeanor, makes her an invaluable volunteer who helps clients feel at ease, and trust that they are in very capable hands,” says Nari Wang, Staff Attorney at VLJ. For all these reasons, we are proud to recognize Diane as this month’s Volunteer of the Month!