HIV/AIDS Clinic

A D.C. HIV+ mother of five children has income security, medical insurance, and peace of mind thanks to the zealous advocacy of UDC-DCSL students in the HlV/AIDS Legal Clinic.

Shahla Zokaie, '02, successfully argued an appeal before a Social Security Administration Administrative Law Judge, the culmination of representation by students in previous semesters, including Brandi Nave, '02. The facts and arguments developed by the students ultimately prevailed: the combination of the mother's severe depression, cardiovascular disease, and HIV-related impairments, and limited education made it impossible for her to work. Because SSA repeatedly denied her claim and our client needed to care for her children, she had attempted to work.

One piece of compelling evidence submitted by Ms. Zokaie was the client's pay stub, showing how few hours she was able to show up for her minimum wage job. Ms. Zokaie cross-examined a vocational expert and succeeded in getting testimony on the record favorable to her client.

The Clinic has also assisted this client with life planning, including filing joint custody complaints, ensuring that the children will be cared for by the person of her choice in the event of her death, a last will and testament, and durable powers of attorney. Representation of clients over several years and on multiple matters is typical of the Clinic's holistic, interdisciplinary practice. By ensuring the security and stability of this mother in regard to her ability to support her children now and to arrange for continuity of care in the event of her death, the Clinic students have made an enormous contribution to the District of Columbia.