Introducing Our 2026 Equal Justice Works Fellows
For over 25 years, Latham & Watkins is proud to have sponsored Equal Justice Work fellows as they work to meet the most pressing needs in their communities. Equal Justice Works connects law students in the US to fellowships that address the shortage of lawyers working on behalf of traditionally underserved populations. These fellowships aim to launch the careers of leaders who are passionate about justice into a lifelong commitment to public service, and provide support over two years to those selected.
“We are honored and excited to champion the next generation of public interest lawyers as they pursue lasting, transformative initiatives in the communities they serve,” said Laura Atkinson-Hope, Public Service Counsel and Director of Global Pro Bono at Latham & Watkins.
The firm’s 2026–28 Equal Justice Works fellows and projects are listed below.
Olivia Loomis, New York Legal Assistance Group
Approximately 45,000 properties in New York City do not have clear title, leaving low-income homeowners particularly vulnerable to fraudulent real estate tactics. Olivia will partner with New York Legal Assistance Group to help homeowners avoid equity loss, deed theft, foreclosure, and displacement.
Olivia’s project will include drafting wills and transfer on death deeds to help homeowners transfer wealth safely to future generations, running estate and advance planning clinics, and partnering with pro bono lawyers to expand the project’s reach.
In addition to providing estate and advance planning services, Olivia will develop and deliver “Know Your Rights” presentations. New York State recently enacted groundbreaking homeowner protections, and she will work to help homeowners evoke these new rights. As part of her role, Olivia will cultivate relationships with community organizations that support homeowners and conduct on-site case intake and individualized legal consultations at senior centers and council members’ offices. Olivia will also evaluate litigation opportunities to help clients retain their family homes.
Molly Pifko, Legal Aid Justice Center
Signed into law in July 2025, HR 1 changed eligibility requirements for Medicaid and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). As these changes go into effect between 2025 and 2028, they are expected to terminate Medicaid coverage for as many as 316,000 Virginians and terminate or reduce SNAP benefits for more than 200,000 Virginians. During this period of change, the Legal Aid Justice Center has identified an increased need for legal services focused on appealing incorrect denials of Medicaid and SNAP to ensure that eligible Virginians do not lose access to these vital programs.
Molly’s project will address these emerging issues alongside the Legal Aid Justice Center. Through a mix of direct representation and community outreach, as well as systemic advocacy, she will educate recipients on policy changes and help them retain benefits through “Know Your Rights” events and pro se clinics. She will provide a spectrum of legal services ranging from advice and counsel to full representation in Medicaid and SNAP appeals. In addition to monitoring the administration of these programs, Molly will investigate and redress any legal concerns through litigation or administrative advocacy. Molly will also advocate for state-level policies to fill coverage gaps and maintain Virginians’ food and healthcare security.