“After speaking with my lawyer, I actually started feeling better. I thought, this could be doable. Maybe I won’t lose my home.”
-Katie, WashULaw Clinic Client
Our Low Income Taxpayer Clinic (LITC) was privileged to represent Katie, a St. Louisan who suffered catastrophic medical setbacks and was forced to leave her long-time career. With no ability to work in the future, she withdrew all of her hard-earned retirement funds to purchase a modest home. Unknowingly, Katie failed to have enough taxes withheld from her distribution and ended up owing a large sum.
With no path forward to pay the taxes owed, Katie found herself in a frightening predicament. With a lien on her beloved home and possible garnishment of her social security, Katie came to the LITC for help. The LITC worked with Katie to create an Offer in Compromise, which significantly reduced her debt and allowed her to move on with her life. Katie’s story highlights just how devastating an ostensibly simple tax issue can be, and how quality legal assistance can help.
The LITC is just one of our 19 acclaimed legal clinics and externships. Through our clinical education program, we provide quality pro bono legal representation to clients who cannot otherwise afford representation. Launched in 1973, we are proud to celebrate the program’s 50th anniversary this year. More than 90% of WashULaw students participate in our clinical programs, making a meaningful difference in St. Louis and becoming better attorneys in the process.
Thank you to The Missouri Bar for telling her story.
