In the pursuit of justice, legal representation plays a pivotal role in safeguarding the rights of underrepresented and vulnerable populations. From victims of human trafficking to survivors of domestic violence, these individuals often face daunting legal challenges and systemic barriers that impede their access to justice. As advocates for the voiceless, legal practitioners like Hillary Walsh of New Frontier Immigration Law are dedicated to championing the rights of those most in need, striving to create a more equitable society for all.
According to the American Bar Association, access to legal services is essential for protecting the rights of individuals facing civil legal issues, such as housing discrimination, family disputes, and employment rights violations. However, research indicates that low-income individuals and minority groups are disproportionately affected by legal inequities, often lacking the financial means or resources to secure legal representation.
Hillary Walsh’s journey into the field of law is a testament to the resilience and determination of individuals committed to making a difference. Despite facing personal challenges and setbacks, including struggles with alcohol abuse and being a military spouse, Walsh remained steadfast in her commitment to serving others. Her experiences as a survivor of abuse and her passion for social justice fueled her desire to advocate for the most marginalized members of society.
With a background in immigration law and a deep-rooted belief in the rights of undocumented immigrants, Walsh founded New Frontier Immigration Law with a mission to provide compassionate and effective legal representation to those in need. Recognizing the prevalence of human trafficking and domestic violence, she has made it her mission to amplify the voices of survivors and hold perpetrators accountable for their actions.
Human trafficking is an issue that is growing in the United States. In 2021, a total of 2,027 people were referred to U.S. attorneys for human trafficking offenses. This is a 49 percent increase from the 1.360 people referred in 2011. Additionally, domestic violence is a very prevalent problem, with one in three women and one in four men having experienced some form of physical violence by a partner.
These staggering statistics showcase the importance of the work that Walsh and her team do. Through her firm, Walsh not only offers legal services but also prioritizes holistic healing and support for clients and employees alike. By incorporating healing classes and therapeutic modalities such as talk therapy and breathwork into their practice, New Frontier Immigration Law strives to address the complex needs of individuals affected by trauma and injustice.
Walsh often works with the undocumented community, and one of her most memorable cases happened earlier this year. “I met a woman who had been trafficked around 25 years ago. She was 15 years old when she was trafficked,” explains Walsh. “We were able to get her a T visa, so she was able to travel back to Guatemala and see her dad for the first time in all these years. She was able to meet a sibling she had never met before, and see her parents. It was truly profound, and a delight for me to work on. These cases happen nearly every day, but this case was extra special because this person is a coworker.”
In addition to her advocacy work, Walsh is actively engaged in raising awareness about human trafficking and domestic abuse. By speaking at conferences and community events, such as the Conference on Crimes Against Women happening next month, Walsh hopes to shed light on these pressing issues and inspire action to combat them. Through education and advocacy, she seeks to challenge misconceptions and mobilize support for those impacted by these forms of violence. Her work was recently recognized, as she was named to Inc.’s 2024 Female Founders 250 list.
The battle against legal inequities requires dedicated advocates who are committed to representing the voiceless and marginalized. Through Walsh’s work at New Frontier, she exemplifies the power of legal advocacy to effect positive change and create a more just and equitable society for all.
