By joining the Eleanor R. Cristol and Judge A. Jay Cristol Bankruptcy Pro Bono Assistance Clinic, LL.M. student Bohdan Demidont is able to actively collaborate with mentor attorneys to provide vital support to financially disadvantaged clients. In this capacity, he dedicates himself to aiding individuals who lack the means to cover attorney fees, ensuring they receive essential legal guidance and assistance.
Demidont, born in 1989 in Ukraine, began his legal career after being called to the Ukrainian bar in 2012. Operating his own boutique law firm, he specialized in various legal areas, including bankruptcy law starting in 2018. However, due to the turmoil of war, he sought refuge in the United States in 2022. In 2023, he enrolled as a White & Case International Arbitration LL.M. student and gained admission to the bankruptcy clinic.
"My experience in the clinic was truly unique," Demidont said. "It provided me with the opportunity to compare the workings of two distinct legal systems from different countries, and I was amazed by the depth and sophistication of the legal system in the USA. The professors and mentors delved into the intricacies of lawyer conduct and the standards of communication with judges, offering invaluable insights. Shortly thereafter, we applied these standards in practical scenarios."
Demidont said that everyone in the clinic was dedicated to imparting their knowledge to students, covering everything from client interactions to case management. A significant aspect of the clinic was addressing ethical dilemmas and knowing where to find the right solutions. It felt like an immersive journey into American legal society, enriching us with a wealth of knowledge, he said.
Throughout the program, he learned how to initiate client appointments, navigate bankruptcy issues within divorce proceedings, participate in official 341 meetings via Zoom, and adapt to changes brought about by COVID-19. He also gained expertise in Chapter 13 and Chapter 7 bankruptcy procedures, utilizing specialized software, and much more.
"Thanks to the clinic, I became a member of the American Bankruptcy Institute and had the opportunity to engage in meetings with the Bankruptcy Bar Association of the Southern District of Florida," he said.
Read more about Miami Law's clinics.
