For more than three decades, Casa Cornelia Law Center (CCLC) has stood as a pillar of justice and hope in Southern California, providing pro bono legal services to immigrants, asylum seekers, and noncitizen survivors of human and civil rights violations. As we enter 2025, we take a moment to reintroduce this vital organization to our legal community—especially under the continued leadership of Carmen M. Chavez, Esq., a dedicated advocate whose journey with Casa Cornelia came full circle from volunteer attorney to Executive Director.
A Shared Legacy of Service
Casa Cornelia and the San Diego La Raza Lawyers Association share a rich history, deeply rooted in a shared commitment to justice, advocacy, and mentorship. For years, many La Raza members have walked through Casa Cornelia’s doors—not just as supporters, but as interns, volunteers, and pro bono attorneys, working side by side to defend the rights of vulnerable immigrants in our region.
From law students gaining their first hands-on experience in immigration law to seasoned attorneys taking on impactful asylum and humanitarian cases, our members have played a vital role in Casa Cornelia’s mission. This legacy of partnership has shaped countless careers and, more importantly, changed lives.
Casa Cornelia: A Commitment to Compassionate Justice
Founded in 1993 by the Society of the Holy Child Jesus, Casa Cornelia has remained steadfast in its mission to uphold human rights, ensuring that immigrants in need receive expert legal representation regardless of their ability to pay. The organization serves some of the most vulnerable members of our community, including:
- Asylum seekers fleeing persecution and violence
- Unaccompanied children navigating the complexities of immigration law
- Victims of human trafficking and serious crimes seeking safety and stability
With a staff of 34 and a dedicated network of over 400 pro bono attorneys, interpreters, and volunteers, Casa Cornelia has been a force for justice, handling thousands of cases annually.
In 2024 alone, Casa Cornelia provided legal services to Nearly 3000 clients, offering them hope, dignity, and due process in an often-overwhelming immigration system.
A Call to Action: Join the Fight for Justice
As Casa Cornelia continues its mission, the San Diego La Raza Lawyers Association has an opportunity to stand in solidarity with those in need. Whether you are a seasoned attorney or a recent law graduate, your skills can make a difference.
Ways to Get Involved:
✅ Take a pro bono case or have your firm partner with us—Casa Cornelia provides training and mentorship
✅ Volunteer as a translator or interpreter to assist non-English-speaking clients
✅ Support the mission through donations or advocacy – Share your Casa Cornelia Story
Be a Part of the Legacy
Casa Cornelia is more than a law center—it is a place of refuge, empowerment, and justice. We invite you to reconnect with this vital organization and support the leadership of one of our own, Carmen Chavez.
To learn more, visit casacornelia.org or reach out to Communications Manager Pero Anaya at panaya@cascornelia.org to explore how you can get involved. Together, we can continue fighting for justice, dignity, and hope in our community.