Nicole Herrera (she/her)
Legal Assistant
Nicole Herrera is a legal assistant supporting the South Ward Promise Neighborhood Program (SWPN) and the Tenancy Program. Nicole is a community advocate with a strong background in criminal justice and direct service. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice with a minor in Psychology from Rutgers University, where she graduated magna cum laude. Her academic foundation is complemented by applied work in both legal and advocacy settings, with a focus on expanding access to justice for underserved populations.
Prior to joining VLJ, Nicole served as a Case Manager for Pretrial Services at the Center for Justice Innovation in Newark, NJ. In this role, she worked directly with individuals impacted by the legal system. She collaborated closely with public defenders, court staff, and community-based providers to connect participants with legal and social services, diversion programs, and reentry support. Nicole’s experience also includes advocacy and outreach work with the New York Public Interest Research Group (NYPIRG), where she advanced environmental and social justice campaigns as a coordinator. Additionally, she has contributed to immigrant justice efforts as a Know Your Rights event coordinator with Newark Community Solutions.
Through these diverse roles, Nicole has developed a deep understanding of how non-profit legal organizations operate. She is skilled in community engagement and client-centered support. Speaking both English and Spanish, she brings a culturally responsive lens to her work and is deeply committed to promoting access to justice for all. Justice to Nicole means creating a system where fairness isn't dependent on privilege and everyone regardless of race, class, and gender has access to meaningful representation and protection.
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