We are proud to share that senior associate Olivia Weber has been selected to receive Neighborhood Legal Services of Los Angeles County's (NLSLA) Wildfire Recovery/Disaster Pro Bono Award for her work on behalf of an elderly, disabled client who was displaced by the Eaton Fire.

The client was evacuated from her home in January 2025 and lost an expensive medical item in the chaos of evacuation. She was also entitled to Serious Needs Assistance, a federal benefit for people evacuated during a federally-declared disaster.

These should have been straightforward claims, but FEMA denied her submissions and initial appeals. Olivia led a team of pro bono students from UC Irvine, School of Law in September 2025 to continue the appeal process and gather evidentiary support. She continued the appeals throughout the spring and summer of 2026 and ultimately, after multiple appeals and with tenacious support from her pro bono client, FEMA reversed its decisions and granted the client relief.

In announcing the award, NLSLA recognized Olivia's commitment to the client and the compassion and flexibility she brought to the work. NLSLA also noted her broader contributions to its wildfire recovery efforts, including mentoring UCI Law students and developing FEMA expertise. Congratulations, Olivia, on this well-deserved recognition.