For vulnerable New Yorkers—whether facing domestic violence, disability, or the challenges of aging—secure housing and long-term support are critical to rebuilding their lives. Since the early 1980s, Barrier Free Living (BFL) has been meeting that need in New York City, operating domestic violence shelters, supportive housing, and mental health programs for residents too often left behind by traditional systems. New York senior associate Jaclyn Hall has partnered with BFL to provide pro bono legal counsel, helping the nonprofit strengthen its operations and continue serving those most in need. 

Guiding BFL Through Complex Regulatory Terrain 

Hall’s work with BFL has centered on regulatory compliance and advising the executive team, helping the nonprofit navigate the dense legal framework that governs housing and social services in New York. In recent years, that has meant monitoring new executive orders targeting nonprofits receiving federal grant money, ensuring BFL’s programs remain in compliance. 

Addressing Housing Occupancy Challenges 

 Earlier this year, Barrier Free Living Apartments (BFLA) in the Bronx faced a serious occupancy issue: too many openings, despite high demand. Because the city contract required 90% occupancy, delays in approving new residents put the program’s funding at risk. Hall stepped in to advise the leadership team. By bringing stakeholders together, clarifying regulatory requirements, and helping the nonprofit advocate for needed solutions, she enabled BFLA to stabilize occupancy and ensure residents could access the housing they needed. 

“We had to try and get all our stakeholders together, get everyone access to the right information, and then we could resolve the issue and get new applicants into those apartments,” Hall said. 

Supporting a New Housing Initiative 

BFL is also preparing to launch a new supportive housing program, Freedom Village, which will offer 75 affordable apartments for homeless adults, including seniors over 65. Nelson Mullins’ New York office has provided strategic guidance to ensure regulatory compliance and smooth program implementation. “They offer both short-term and long-term housing,” said Hall. “This new project is focused on housing with new leases and supporting those 65 and over in a studio capacity.” 

A Decade-Long Partnership 

Hall’s connection to BFL runs deep. She first worked with the nonprofit more than a decade ago as a junior associate at another firm, and when she joined Nelson Mullins, she carried that relationship forward. Today, the pro bono efforts have also been strongly supported by Mark Grider -- Hall’s team lead for Litigation, Government Response, and Crisis Management -- along with associates Madeline Bergstrom, Zygimante “Ziggy” Andrijauskaite, and Hannah Zuckerman. She has also brought colleagues from the New York office, including partner Charles Munn, into the work. “It’s been fun to bring some of the Nelson Mullins folks into the relationship and have the support here,” Hall said. 

Clearing the Path to Stability 

For BFL, every delay or regulatory hurdle can mean apartments sitting empty while people in crisis remain without safe shelter. Through her pro bono counsel, Hall is helping ensure that doesn’t happen. Her work underscores how legal advocacy can clear obstacles and open doors to stability for those who need it most.