Jeff Stephens
“Ensuring access to justice is a commitment to hearing each client’s story and then doing the work made necessary by the inequitable impact of our systems and historic injustices.”
“Ensuring access to justice is showing up,” whether that is at the courthouse or on the neighborhood block. For VLJ’s June 2023 Defender of Justice, “showing up” is his “just getting started.” For this month’s Defender of Justice, VLJ recognizes and honors the commitment, compassion, and dedication of Jeff Stephens.
Jeff is a senior staff attorney in VLJ’s Tenancy Program and also oversees VLJ’s quarterly Estate Planning Clinic and co-leads VLJ’s internship efforts. Jeff received a Bachelor of Arts in philosophy and political science from Hunter College and his Juris Doctor from Rutgers Law-Newark.
A member of the VLJ Tenancy Program since December 1, 2020, Jeff's advocacy involves helping tenants navigate complex legal journeys and ensuring they find stability in their housing situations; work that can be challenging when clients face new eviction threats or landlords who fail to adhere to agreements. Jeff recognizes the unsettling reality that some corporate landlords prioritize maximizing profits, often tasking their attorneys with swiftly clearing out units. Exacerbating this is another reality of how expensive New Jersey is for renters and how hard it is to find quality, affordable housing. It's this harsh truth that motivates Jeff to improve outcomes for clients, especially those who have previously experienced eviction.
Regularly defending tenants up to and through trial, Jeff celebrates keeping so many clients housed by continuously pushing back against landlords who often utilize an endurance strategy with extensive resources. Obtaining a dismissal for a client can create a kind of fresh start, some stability to build on. But, sometimes legal solutions are not available. When a client’s case seems to have little chance at a positive outcome, Jeff takes the time to plan the next steps, preparing clients for the possibility of eviction. He recounts a post-judgment case where the client was burdened with over $30,000 in rent arrears, leaving little hope for resolution. Jeff realized the client’s story didn’t end with this case, so Jeff needed to help them plan for life after it. As any legal services attorney will tell you, sometimes the work is less legal and more social work: the human needs of clients have to be met first. Understanding the importance of holistic advocacy and centering the “humanness” of his clients, Jeff provides emotional guidance, reminding clients there are always options and worthwhile planning available.
Working with interns has become one of the most rewarding aspects of Jeff's role at VLJ. Seeing the fresh motivation and enthusiasm of aspiring law professionals brings him great joy. Jeff appreciates the opportunity to mentor interns, celebrating their choice to engage in ensuring access to justice. When a previous intern accompanied Jeff to court, he anticipated having to slow things down as a teachable moment. However, he soon realized the intern was fully capable, and Jeff found fulfillment in being part of intern’s exposure to the real lives behind the cases they handled.
For Jeff, the chance to slow down and listen to clients' stories is a pivotal aspect of his work. Every client has a unique life story, circumstances, and goals. While the law provides a framework, Jeff believes in personalism, emphasizing the importance of truly hearing and understanding the individual before him. This personal touch, combined with his legal expertise, helps him provide tailored guidance and support to his clients.
Reflecting on his journey, Jeff acknowledges the initial anxiety he felt when returning to in-person interactions in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, he soon realized that being present and engaging directly with clients amplified his sense of purpose. Jeff also offered that the positive and supportive environment at VLJ stands in stark contrast to previous experiences, and Jeff appreciates the growth and personal success he has achieved, particularly in honing his listening skills.
Outside of work, Jeff has found another passion in tap dancing. Although he currently pursues this interest independently, he has been exploring collaborations with local musicians, tapping into the music scene in his town. In fact, Jeff’s life before the law was steeped in the arts on the West Coast; Jeff previously worked on productions at the La Jolla Playhouse in San Diego before following friends to NYC.
To Jeff, our June 2023 Defender of Justice, thank you! Thank you for recognizing the humanity of VLJ’s clients. Thank you for empowering VLJ’s clients and for fighting to ensure dignity, compassion, and justice remain at the forefront of your work. Thank you for being a powerfully kind and caring coworker, mentor, and professional of the highest caliber.
Connect with Jeff on LinkedIn