MLAC Welcomes Attorneys Carolyn Hely and Nina Sousa to Board of Directors

BOSTON, MA — The Massachusetts Legal Assistance Corporation (MLAC) is pleased to announce the appointments of attorneys Carolyn Hely and Nina Sousa to its Board of Directors. MLAC is the Commonwealth’s largest funding source for civil legal aid organizations, which provide critical representation and resources to people with low incomes facing barriers to basic needs. 

Carolyn Hely is an Assistant District Attorney at the Norfolk District Attorney’s Office, where she prosecutes homicides and other serious felonies including domestic violence and sexual assault cases. Her work reflects a deep commitment to public service and to addressing complex matters within the justice system. 

Hely is also an active leader within the legal community. She is a former president of the Bar Association of Norfolk County and continues to support the association’s free legal clinics and conciliation program, helping to expand access to justice for individuals and families across the region.  

Nina Sousa is the founder of Sousa Family Law, where she represents clients in a wide range of family law matters, including divorce, child custody, and guardianships. In addition to her private practice, Sousa serves in several specialized roles within the court system, including as an Attorney Representing Children, Guardian ad Litem, professional parenting time supervisor, and Committee for Public Counsel Services panel attorney. 

Throughout her career, Sousa has devoted herself to working directly with families, juveniles, courts, schools, law enforcement, and mental health professionals, developing a holistic understanding of the challenges facing children and families navigating the legal system. Prior to founding her firm, she served as Director of Fall River’s South Coast Youth Courts, where she focused on youth-centered justice and community-based solutions.  

“Carolyn and Nina each bring valuable perspectives to MLAC’s Board,” said Lynne Parker, Executive Director of MLAC. “Their combined experience strengthens our efforts to expand access to justice for people with low incomes throughout Massachusetts.” 

For more information about MLAC and its work, please visit mlac.org.