VLJ October 2024 Defender of Justice: Yasmine Boto

Yasmine Boto

Ensuring access to justice means providing everyone, regardless of their socioeconomic status, the opportunity to receive life changing legal representation.”

Defender of Justice: Yasmine Boto

Meet Yasmine Boto, one of Volunteer Lawyers for Justice's (VLJ) dedicated staff and a familiar face who has been with the organization since 2022. Yasmine's journey with VLJ began as an intern for the ReLeSe (Reentry Legal Services) Program, Veterans Legal Program, and driver’s license restoration efforts during her 3L year at New York Law School. After graduating from law school, Yasmine joined VLJ as a Wilf Public Interest Fellow, expanding her work to the Tenancy Program and Children’s Representation Program. Now, Yasmine focuses her efforts on the ReLeSe Program, Divorce Program, and estate planning for veterans.

During her undergraduate studies at Seton Hall University (class of 2019), Yasmine interned for several public interest organizations, including CASA of Union County and the ACLU of New Jersey. Prior to attending law school, Yasmine volunteered with the International Rescue Committee and worked closely with their immigration unit.

At NYLS, Yasmine co-founded New York Law School’s chapter of If/When/How: Lawyering for Reproductive Justice where she served as the Founding Secretary and later as the organization’s Co-President. Yasmine also served as a Junior Editor on New York Law School’s Family Law Journal.

When asked about what she enjoys most at VLJ, Yasmine shared that it’s the opportunity for continuous learning and professional growth that truly stands out. VLJ has given her a chance to work across multiple practice areas, allowing her to help clients with diverse legal needs while simultaneously honing her skills as an attorney. Yasmine shared, "This varied experience has allowed me to serve clients facing many different issues while also allowing me to continue learning and growing as a legal professional.”

While Yasmine is still early in her legal career, her ability to adapt and contribute across multiple programs is a superpower. Even better, her approach to VLJ’s mission is shared by many of her colleagues, “Ensuring access to justice means providing everyone, regardless of their socioeconomic status, the opportunity to receive life changing legal representation.” Hear, hear, Yasmine!

Outside of work, Yasmine enjoys a good book, exploring museums, and traveling. Her love for learning clearly extends beyond the legal realm, and we are excited to see where her journey at VLJ takes her next.

Join us in celebrating Yasmine Boto, a true Defender of Justice!

Connect with Yasmine on LinkedIn