MVLS’s 2026 Family Law Cohort helps newer attorneys and attorneys new to family law build practical skills while taking on pro bono cases with support from experienced mentors and MVLS staff.

Through the 2025–2026 Family Law Cohort, approximately 15 family law cases were placed with mentees. These cases gave participants the opportunity to put their training into practice while helping Marylanders navigate some of the most personal and high-stakes legal issues they may face.

Building Family Law Skills Through Mentorship

Throughout the program, mentees learned about major aspects of family law practice, including how to prepare for a case, what to expect in court, how to work with clients, and how to approach key stages of representation.

The Family Law Cohort also provided samples, templates, and guidance from mentors and MVLS attorneys so participants had support as they developed their skills.

That structure helped mentees gain confidence while handling real cases. Instead of learning family law alone, participants had a network of experienced attorneys and MVLS staff available to answer questions, review strategy, and provide guidance.

How Mentors Supported Mentees

Mentors played a critical role throughout the Family Law Cohort. They invited mentees to observe court hearings and conferences, helped them think through case strategy, reviewed pleadings, answered questions, and provided ongoing encouragement and support.

This hands-on mentorship gave mentees a clearer understanding of family law practice while also helping them feel more prepared to represent clients.

Several mentees also took additional cases, showing the long-term value of building a supportive pathway into family law pro bono work.

2025–2026 Family Law Cohort Pairings

The 2025–2026 Family Law Cohort included the following mentor and mentee pairings:

• Heather Dlhopolsky — Larry Feldman
• Sara Furlow — Erika Slater
• Banchalem Urgeha — Curtis Cooper
• Evonne Klu — Michele Manculich
• Diana Pope — Richard Lebovitz
• Lucelia Justiniano — Kerrie Campbell-Garrett
• Edith Serrano — Sarah Nadolny
• Kenneth Mallory — Allison McFadden
• Philip Davis — Vincent Mosley
• Ginger Ackerman — Jonathan Lane
• Nazish Mithaiwala — Thomas Mulinazzi

Looking Ahead to the 2026–2027 Family Law Cohort

Interest in the next Family Law Cohort is already strong, with 12 attorneys currently interested in joining as mentees for the 2026–2027 cohort.

The cohort is especially valuable for new attorneys or attorneys with little to no family law experience. Participants learn about the practice of family law, including how to prepare, what to expect in court, and how to approach some of the most relevant parts of family law practice.

For attorneys who are interested in family law but may feel unsure about taking a case on their own, the Family Law Cohort offers a structured way to learn, ask questions, and receive guidance every step of the way.

By joining the Family Law Cohort, attorneys can build meaningful legal skills while helping Marylanders in need of free civil legal help.

Interested in the Next Family Law Cohort?

Attorneys interested in supporting the 2026–2027 Family Law Cohort as mentors or mentees can connect with MVLS to learn more about upcoming opportunities.

Interested in learning more? Contact Family Law Staff Attorney, Jennifer Haber to get involved with the next Family Law Cohort.