The Consumer Defense Unit supports families and individuals facing financial hardships to relieve their debt and increase their economic stability. An example of how the Consumer Defense Unit provides support and assistance is well-told in the below testimonial written and sent in to supervising attorney Noha Gabra by a client.

“As a single mother of four on a limited income and no assets, I was already struggling to make ends meet when the pandemic hit. COVID caused a serious financial hardship, and I simply couldn’t keep up with my payments. When I was first sued for more than $7,000.00, I felt worried and overwhelmed. I didn’t know where to turn or how I could ever afford an attorney.

I first contacted Community Legal Aid SoCal in 2023 after receiving a Summons and Complaint for a collection case and was assisted by the Consumer Defense Unit. They were honest with me about the process and what they could do. While the first case was ongoing, I received another Summons and Complaint for more than $3,000.00. I contacted the Consumer Defense Unit again and they assisted me.

Attorney Noha Gabra and her team represented me in both cases. They filed an answer on my behalf and assisted me in obtaining a fee waiver for both cases, which exempted me from paying the expensive court filing fees I couldn’t afford. Attorney Noha Gabra reached out to the plaintiff’s attorney and was able to get me a hardship dismissal.

Throughout this, Community Legal Aid SoCal’s Consumer team treated me with the utmost respect and compassion. They explained the process in plain language, guided me every step of the way, and kept me informed of the progress of my case.

Thanks to their dedication, my two collection cases were dismissed in full, and I didn’t have to pay a single dollar. Their support lifted a huge burden for me. I’m deeply grateful for the help I received, and I know I could not have done this on my own. The service I received was excellent, and I would recommend the Consumer Defense Unit to anyone facing a similar situation.

Thank you for your support.”