A recent addition to the VLJ family, Adelina Herrarte, Esq. joined VLJ in late April 2022 and hit the ground running as the Senior Staff Attorney for the Debt Relief Legal Program (DRLP) and Divorce Program. In just over four months Adelina has played an instrumental role overseeing VLJ’s consumer debt, bankruptcy, and divorce services while also expanding VLJ’s reach by providing legal help in English and Spanish. For those who know Adelina, none of this should come as a surprise as she is a lifelong public interest attorney with experience at various legal services organizations. Adelina has been aptly described as a great leader and mentor for both programs.
Prior to joining VLJ, Adelina was the Assistant Unit Manager for the Consumer Law Unit and Elder Justice Project at Northeast New Jersey Legal Services (NNJLS). Prior to NNJLS, Adelina cut her teeth at Legal Services of Northwest Jersey. Not only is Adelina a true asset for VLJ, she is also a member of the New Jersey State Bar Association, the National Association of Consumer Advocates, and Women Lawyers in Bergen County.
Adelina completed both undergrad and law school studies in New York City. In 2001 Adelina earned her bachelor’s degree from New York University, and in 2004 she received a Juris Doctor from the City University of New York School of Law. When asked what is her favorite thing about working at VLJ, Adelina responded, “I am a mission-oriented person. I love that our work at VLJ empowers our clients and their families to obtain stability.”
Since day one, Adelina has been an inspiration, leader, and advocate. Her compassion, professionalism, and know-how have allowed her to lead the DRLP and Divorce Program with ease. Adelina works closely with community and law firm partners to bring civil legal help to clients through VLJ clinics. Ever eager to expand the cadre of people supporting VLJ’s efforts, Adelina encourages attorneys and non-attorneys alike to volunteer for VLJ and embody our mission of ensuring access to justice for people experiencing poverty.
When Adelina is not being assiduous at work, she can be found tending to a variety of plants at home, writing, and reading books or listening to audiobooks. She also enjoys “glamping” in nature. Bitten by the wanderlust bug, Adelina likes discovering new cities and activities off the beaten path, including eating local cuisine.
VLJ is grateful to have Adelina as a part of the team! She is a kind and compassionate attorney, advocate, and colleague, perfect qualities for a social justice superhero.