Carol Edward and Associates Receive WSBA's Local Hero Award │ Jan. 18, 2018
Carol Edward, Eric Lin, Leta Sanchez, Diana Chamberlain recognized for their work developing DACA clinics
SEATTLE — The Washington State Bar Association today presented the Law Offices of Carol Edward and Associates, P.S., with its Local Hero Award, in recognition of their planning and development of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) clinics in Skagit County.
The Local Hero Award is given to those who have made noteworthy contributions to their communities. WSBA President Bradford Furlong presented the award at a luncheon in Bellingham on Jan. 18. Carol Edward and associates Eric Lin, Leta Sanchez, and Diana Chamberlain were nominated by the Skagit County Bar Association.
“Ms. Edward and her attorneys in Mount Vernon historically have helped with DACA clinics and other immigration needs, but especially stepped up this summer when DACA was rescinded,” said Skagit County Bar Association President Heather Webb.
Edward was instrumental in developing a DACA clinic, which started in 2012 and occurred consistently until 2016, when it was suspended due to uncertainty in immigration policy. Edward, along with her associates Eric Lin, Leta Sanchez, and Diana Chamberlain, participated in planning and development, as well as staffing the clinics, which included an informational session, an application workshop, and individual review of documents. Though the DACA clinics were suspended in 2016, they volunteered for other clinics and provided consultations for Volunteer Lawyer Program clients when possible.
“When it became clear that the DACA program would be terminated, they were quick to respond, working with the Skagit Immigrant Rights Council to set up information sessions and workshops to ensure that eligible individuals could renew their status before the deadline,” said Skagit Volunteer Lawyer Program Manager Maren Anderson of Community Action of Skagit County. “In addition to their efficient and competent assistance, they displayed compassion and patience for individuals in extremely stressful and confusing circumstances. We are fortunate to have them in our local community.”
About the Washington State Bar Association
The WSBA operates under the delegated authority of the Washington Supreme Court and exercises a governmental function authorized by the Court to license and regulate the state’s nearly 40,000 legal professionals, including lawyers, limited practice officers, and limited license legal technicians. The WSBA both regulates legal professionals under the authority of the Court and serves its members as a professional association — all without public funding. The WSBA administers the Bar admission process, including the bar exam; provides record-keeping and licensing functions; administers the lawyer discipline system; and provides continuing legal education for legal professionals, in addition to numerous other educational and member-service activities. The Bar’s mission is to serve the public and its members, to ensure the integrity of the legal profession, and to champion justice.
