Focus on the Future, 0421 RIBJ, RIBJ, 69 RI Bar J., No. 5, Pg. 27

• Position: Vol. 69 5 Pg. 27

FOCUS ON THE FUTURE

An Interview with Kaylin Pelletier-Koenig, Esq.

No. Vol. 69 No. 5 Pg. 27

Rhode Island Bar Journal

April, 2021

Nicole P. Dyszlewsk¡, Esq. MLIS and Meghan L. Hopkins, Esq.

FOCUS ON THE FUTURE

Focus on the Future is a new spotlight series where members of the Rhode Island Bar Journal Editorial Board interview attorneys who are newer to the Rhode Island Bar.

> What is your current title and position?

I am a Staff Attorney at Operation Stand Down Rhode Island (OSDRI) which Is a veteran-founded, veteran-run 503(c) non-profit organization that provides "wrap-around services" for veterans, military families, and currently enlisted service people. "Wrap-around services" Is a broad term that could include food from our food pantry, clothing from our clothing shed, employment services, housing/rental assistance, and legal assistance.

> What do you actually do all day?

I am one of four attorneys who work on a variety of matters such as screening new clients, pro bono work, legal work for reduced fees, criminal record expungement, family law, eviction work, social security hearings, and traffic tribunal cases. In the course of a day, I might be in client meetings, reviewing medical records, in administrative hearings, or In court proceedings. We get cases as referrals from the Providence VA Medical Center, the Department of Veterans Affairs, the Veterans Treatment Court, and a network of community providers.

> Who is your biggest role model in or out of the law?

Definitely my father. My dad is the hardest working person. He is my best friend, my confidant, and my go-to for everything from job advice, to life advice, to marriage advice. He Is one of the only people I have been able to count on. He Is a single dad, business owner, and mechanic. My heart of gold comes from him.

> What do you do to de-stress?

I play with my 6-year-old, 50 pound black Labrador Retriever named Chevy. Although COVID has changed some things, I like to go to the shooting range and the beach. I also have dinner at my Gram's every Monday night and have volunteered once a week for the last 9 years at the St. Charles Church Soup Kitchen in Providence. Time with my family and volunteering helps me to stay humble and appreciate all I have In my life.

> What is your favorite restaurant in Rhode Island?

I go through phases but I was fairly obsessed with Black Oak Kitchen and Drinks In...