Staff Spotlight: Scout Richters - Staff Attorney
1. What inspired you to pursue immigration law, and what personal or professional experiences shaped that path?
I was drawn to immigration law because it's at the intersection of justice, compassion, and resilience. Early in my legal career, I worked with families navigating complex systems while facing extraordinary vulnerability — and I saw how transformative it can be when someone has a compassionate advocate by their side who can simplify complex processes and systems.
I’ve always been passionate about working toward a society where every person has the chance to belong and thrive. Immigration law lets me put that passion into action.
2. Can you share a moment in your legal work that reminded you why this work matters?
In working with clients in juvenile court, many faced layers of trauma and roadblocks. Many times, when I first met my clients, they felt unheard, voiceless, and powerless. By listening to my clients, building trust, and through consistent advocacy, I often saw renewed hope in my clients.
In each case, I carry with me the idea that legal representation isn't just about winning cases, it's about restoring dignity and agency. In many cases, having a dedicated advocate who believes in them can be life-changing for a client, and I know this is incredibly true for CLIA's clients.
3. What challenges do you see immigrant and refugee clients facing most often — and how do you, in your new role at CLIA, hope to help them navigate those barriers?
The barriers are often overlapping: legal complexity, language access, financial insecurity, and in many cases, fear stemming from past trauma or systemic discrimination.
At CLIA, I’m honored to be part of a team that doesn’t just provide legal services, but instead provides wraparound care that meets people where they are. In my role, I hope to expand access, strengthen partnerships, and ensure that every client feels supported, informed, and empowered throughout their journey.
4. How do you approach working with clients who may be in crisis or have experienced trauma?
With care, patience, and deep respect. I use a trauma-informed lens in everything I do — recognizing that trust is built slowly and that clients are the experts in their own experiences.
My approach is to listen more than I speak, center their voices in the legal process, and create a space where they feel safe and supported. Sometimes, the most powerful thing I can offer is not just legal guidance but also a genuine human connection.
5. What do you hope to accomplish at CLIA, and what would you say to someone who’s thinking about supporting this work?
At CLIA, I hope to help expand our impact — reaching more families, strengthening systems, and continuing to advocate for policies rooted in equity and compassion.
If you're thinking about supporting this work, please do. Whether you give your time, resources, or amplify our mission in your circles, you are making a real difference. This work changes lives — and together, we can build a Nebraska that welcomes and protects all.
