Lenard Weiss, a partner at Manatt, has advocated on behalf of 11 veterans since 2013 as a pro bono attorney in Swords' Pro Bono Program.
Every quarter, we spotlight a dynamo pro bono attorney who provides critical legal services to veterans. This summer, we are pleased to spotlight Lenard Weiss for his outstanding service to veterans as a volunteer attorney and his dedication to Swords to Plowshares’ Legal Pro Bono Program.
Lenard Weiss, a partner at Manatt with over 50 years of experience in complex business and commercial litigation, has been a pro bono attorney with Swords to Plowshares since 2013. Over the last five years, Lenard has represented 11 veterans through Swords to Plowshares’ Legal Pro Bono Program. Because of his advocacy, his clients have achieved VA service-connected benefits for mental health conditions and physical disabilities, obtained non-service connected VA pension, secured a debt waiver for burdensome VA debt, and attained VA Special Monthly Compensation benefits. He is currently representing a post-9/11 era, Marine combat veteran in his discharge upgrade application before the Department of Defense.
Upon learning about this recognition, Lenard expressed why it was important for him to volunteer: “Representing veterans through Swords to Plowshares Pro Bono Program is a totally worthwhile way for me to use my litigation expertise and offer real help to those who need and deserve it.”
“Len has been one of our most dedicated volunteer attorneys,” said Swords to Plowshares Legal Director Kate Richardson. “His readiness to take on cases and the high-quality representation that he provides to his pro bono clients have made him an invaluable pro bono partner. Most importantly, his advocacy resulted in significant changes in the lives of his veteran clients.”
Thank you, Len, for your incredible work on behalf of our veterans fighting for their VA benefits!
“Understandably, veterans can be wary and not trust us immediately – especially if they are women or struggling with mental health conditions. This isn’t only about getting veterans housed; we’re also establishing relationships with them out where they feel the safest – which may be in their tent or on a bench they frequent. It’s worth it to come out here determined to make a connection.” - Tonya Greenlee, Swords’ Outreach
From the streets of San Francisco to behind the barber chair, Zack’s story is one of resilience, community, and second chances – a reminder that with the right support, every veteran has the power to rebuild.
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