Rev. Brian J. Shanley, O.P. President | St. John's University website

As New York City continues to grapple with a homelessness crisis, Laura Brancato, a partner at Meltzer Lippe Goldstein & Breitstone and a member of the New York State Bar Association (NYSBA) Task Force on Homelessness and the Law, is working tirelessly to address the issue. The city's main municipal shelter system is currently housing a staggering number of individuals, with 92,824 people, including 33,365 children, seeking refuge each night.

Brancato's passion for defending the most vulnerable has been a driving force in her legal career. From assisting elderly clients with dementia to advocating for developmentally disabled children and adults with mental health challenges, she has dedicated herself to improving the lives of those in need. Now, she is applying her advocacy skills to tackle New York's homelessness crisis.

A graduate of St. John's Law, Brancato has always been drawn to criminal law and the opportunity to make a difference in people's lives. After working as an Assistant District Attorney in the Bronx, she transitioned to private practice but continued to find ways to give back to her community through the NYSBA. Her work on a task force related to mental illness and her focus on elder law and special needs practice have provided her with valuable insights into the interconnectedness of the issues addressed by the Homelessness Task Force.

According to Brancato, the homelessness crisis in New York is a result of various systemic issues, including affordable housing, poverty, mental health and addiction, domestic abuse, COVID-19 policies, and an influx of asylum seekers. However, she remains optimistic about the potential for change. She believes that by efficiently allocating resources and implementing common-sense solutions, the state government can make a significant impact.

Brancato feels privileged to be able to use her litigation skills and prior work experience to tackle these societal challenges. For her, it is not just a job but a passion project. She believes that how society treats its most vulnerable defines its values, and she is committed to making a difference through her legal practice. Brancato expresses her gratitude to St. John's Law and the many people who have influenced her career path, and she looks forward to serving her community for many years to come.