This is a story about a pro bono case in small claims court. But it’s a lot more than that. It’s a story of a damaged human trying to survive. It’s a story of a justice system that too often hits hardest against the most unfortunate people in our society. But it’s also a story of how persistence and attention to detail can make a legal case turn on a dime—and make a real difference in someone’s life.

This story takes place several years ago, when I was just a young attorney fresh out of law school who decided to try some pro bono work, figuring that I could pick up some trial experience and expand my legal knowledge while doing some good in my city.