Maria Valeri
Pro Bono Program Manager

Maria Valeri joined VLP’s immigration program in 2015. In March 2016, she earned full accreditation from the U.S. Department of Justice as an immigration representative, enabling her to provide comprehensive legal advocacy to noncitizens navigating complex immigration matters. Throughout her tenure, Maria has successfully represented clients in a wide range of affirmative immigration applications, with a particular focus on serving survivors of domestic violence and human trafficking, while also providing critical deportation defense as a member of VLP’s Batavia immigration team.

In 2018, Maria became the manager of VLP’s Pro Bono Program, where she plays a pivotal role in expanding access to justice throughout Western New York. She cultivates and coordinates meaningful pro bono opportunities for private attorneys, develops and delivers training programs, and oversees referrals across VLP’s diverse civil legal services units, including immigration. Her leadership has strengthened partnerships within the legal community and enhanced the organization’s capacity to serve vulnerable populations.

Maria also works closely with the University at Buffalo School of Law to create impactful experiential learning opportunities, integrating law students into VLP’s work through internships, practicums, and hands-on legal training. In addition, she manages VLP’s Pro Se Assistance Program in partnership with the United States District Court for the Western District of New York, helping self-represented litigants navigate federal court proceedings and improving access to the justice system.

Additionally, Maria currently serves as Co-Chair of the New York State Bar Association’s Pro Bono Coordinators Network, where she collaborates with legal services organizations and bar leaders statewide to advance pro bono engagement, innovation, and access to justice.