simon Law volunteers will assist Land of Lincoln Legal Aid at a name change clinic Friday,Nov. 7, in East St. Louis, Illinois. Ten attorneys from Simon Law will be on-site to help process paperwork for individuals seeking legal name changes.
The clinic provides a critical service for survivors of domestic violence, who may see a name change as a final step toward safety, and for transgender individuals affirming their gender identity.
“For some people, changing their name is their last step in their survival from a domestic violence situation,” saeid Clarissa Gaff, executive director of Land of Lincoln Legal Aid. “For others, it’s another step to becoming the gender they’ve always identified with. Our volunteers hear all kinds of reasons people want to change their names and we are happy to help them make it their new reality.”
John G. Simon, founder of Simon Law, emphasized the firm’s commitment to access to justice. “We were honored when Land of Lincoln asked us to participate in such a meaningful event for those in need, and we are grateful for organizations like Land of Lincoln Legal Aid that exist to ensure people have access to legal assistance regardless of their income.”
Legal name changes can provide meaningful benefits beyond safety and identity affirmation, including correcting discrepancies on official documents and facilitating access to services. Land of Lincoln Legal Aid offers free civil legal services to low-income individuals in 65 Illinois counties.