Over fall break, eight dedicated law students from the Indian Legal Clinic’s Estate Planning section, led by Professor Helen Burtis (’07), traveled to Temecula Valley, California, to serve members of the Pechanga Band of Indians. Jessica Banks, Gabe Dowell, Shandiin Herrera, Imani Hicks, Matthew McGraw, Cristella Medrano, Sam Phillips and Ian Roche worked directly with clients, making a meaningful impact through their work.

The Pechanga Band of Indians 2024 Estate Planning Clinic was especially significant for Hicks. A member of the Pechanga Band of Indians, Hicks first encountered the Indian Legal Program’s estate planning clinics as an undergraduate, accompanying her grandmother to one of the program’s earliest clinics with the Band. Reflecting on the experience, Hicks shared, “The Estate Planning Clinic was truly a full circle moment for me. I’m grateful I had the opportunity to provide this experience to my community through the Indian Legal Program’s Estate Planning Clinic and to serve my home community. It reaffirmed my choice to go to ASU Law to serve Native communities within Arizona and throughout Indian Country.”

McGraw captured the collective sentiment of the group, “The estate planning clinic was an invaluable experience. We gained practical skills in one-on-one client advising, expanded our knowledge of federal Indian law and decedent’s estates, and enjoyed the exceptional hospitality of the Pechanga Band of Indians.”

The estate planning clinics have become a cherished experience for many students, often inspiring them to return for additional opportunities. Phillips, a returning participant, shared, “This was my second Estate Planning Clinic and they have become work that is very important to me, especially helping elders as a way to give back to the communities that continually support us in the Indian Legal Program.”

During their time in Temecula, the students met with 14 clients to discuss estate plans and assist in drafting and executing wills and health care powers of attorney. Thanks to their efforts, these clients now have peace of mind knowing their wishes are safeguarded in legal documents.

“I genuinely felt like I made a difference,” said Banks, summing up the profound impact of their work.