Straussner & Sherman not only bring their expertise of safety and injury law to Los Angeles firefighters, but they also bring a cheerful approach to charity and community involvement. Julie Sherman, co-founding partner of the San Fernando Valley-based law firm, explains why the Widows, Orphans & Disabled Firemen’s Fund is so important: “We’ve always wanted to help those who help others. We started our firm in 2004 and feel very honored to represent the firefighters.”
For the last two years, the Injury-on-Duty specialists have sponsored booths and donated prizes for the Hope for Firefighters and LAFD Invitational events. For Hope, the firm decorated their sponsored booths in fun and vibrant themes, making a delightful impression on the charity and firefighters alike. “We had a wonderful response to our Baja fish tacos in June,” Julie continues, “They were such a hit we ran out of food this year!”
Voted one of the Top Women Lawyers in California in 2013, Julie (pictured on left) is happy to participate at events where the firefighters can relax, laugh and play while raising money for those who need it most. Aaron Straussner (pictured on right), co-founding partner and workers’ compensation expert, is quick to agree. When nearby Fire Station No. 39 approached the firm to sponsor their team during the Hope for Firefighters event, the legal eagles were thrilled. “We feel like we’re a part of the fire family. Any time we hear they need anything, we’re quick to respond,” Aaron said.
Straussner insists the firm has always had a strong drive to aid firefighters. That drive even manifests itself in unexpected ways. For instance, the Straussner & Sherman law offices reside in a Los Angeles historic landmark building, the same place the forever-busy LAFD Brush Clearance Unit used to call home.
Julie and Aaron’s concern for the welfare of their fire family also led them to help establish the Firefighter Cancer Support Network (FCSN) in 2005. The organization helps firefighters and their families receive the urgent care and advice they need after a cancer diagnosis. The FCSN also keeps the community and potential patients informed about firefighter-related healthcare issues in easy-to-digest white papers like “Taking Action Against Cancer in the Fire Service.”
“We hold a gala for the FCSN each year,” Aaron shares calmly. “I keep pictures of firefighters who’ve passed away from cancer. Their families send them to me and it reminds me of how important our cause is to them.”
From disability retirements to workers’ compensation, the legal professionals tailor their services to meet the needs of each individual client.” We feel so blessed to work with them and help them after they’ve helped so many,” asserts Julie.
For more information about Straussner & Sherman’s current services, please visit iodlawyers.com or call their offices at (818) 788-1700.
By Candace Nicholson