“Hispanic Alliance has made a huge difference by connecting people who can provide services or knowledge to community members who need them. That is the great benefit—connecting people to each other.”
When someone calls the Hispanic Alliance looking for legal help, Jessica Wallace is often the first name that comes up.
She’s not on staff. She’s not paid. But as Chair of HA’s Legal Team and one of the most trusted immigration attorneys in the Upstate, Jessica shows up relentlessly—for families, for volunteers, and for the systems that make access to justice possible.
She brings more than expertise. She brings trust. And she’s built a team of legal professionals who do the same.
Why the Alliance Matters
Jessica founded Wallace Immigration Law after graduating from Mercer Law School in 2012. Her practice includes everything from green cards and asylum to deportation defense and naturalization.
But her impact extends far beyond her office. As a longtime HA partner, she leads Know Your Rights workshops, supports power of attorney clinics, and helps train the next generation of bilingual advocates.
For many HA staff members, who are not legal experts, Jessica is the go-to lifeline when the questions are urgent and the stakes are high.
“Being a member of Hispanic Alliance is very rewarding,” she says. “It allows me to practice my skills as an attorney, pass on my knowledge to others, and help people who may not be able to afford a private attorney.”
That’s the core of the Legal Team’s work: providing quality legal education and access for families who otherwise wouldn’t have it.
La Fiesta, and a Moment That Mattered
Jessica still remembers her first La Fiesta—HA’s annual celebration of Latin culture, community, and joy.
“Everyone was happy and dancing. It was just a lovely moment,” she recalls.
That night, she was named Volunteer of the Year.
“It meant a lot to me because it made me feel like what I’m doing is making a difference. To be recognized by the people at Hispanic Alliance—it made me feel really proud.”
It wasn’t about the award. It was about belonging. That affirmation that her time, talent, and service had contributed to something bigger—a community where legal guidance is available, no matter your income, language, or immigration status.
An Open Table
Jessica is a champion for legal access—but she’s also a recruiter for civic engagement.
“Any community member is welcome,” she says. “Whether they speak Spanish, French, English—there’s a place for you on one of our teams.”
Her message is clear: HA’s Legal Team isn’t just for lawyers. Volunteers, translators, organizers, students—everyone has a role to play in making justice more accessible.
“If you’re interested in health, we have a Health Team. If you’re drawn to education, there’s space there. But if you want to help ensure people have access to legal information and their rights—join us.”
What Community Looks Like
Ask Jessica to describe what keeps her coming back, and she doesn’t hesitate.
“I feel like I’m part of a community,” she says. “And I feel like I am serving the community. That’s really important—to feel that where you live.”
That’s what Hispanic Alliance creates: a network of trust. A place where professionals lend their talents for the good of others. Where families can find credible help. Where the name “Alliance” isn’t just a branding decision—it’s a strategic commitment to collective action.
What Community Looks Like
Jessica’s story is a reminder that access to justice doesn’t happen by accident—it happens because committed people show up.
Because of Jessica and the Legal Team:
- Families understand their rights in moments of fear
- Immigrants get the information they need to pursue safety and stability
- HA staff have trusted experts they can call
- Community members are trained and empowered to help others
Your gift strengthens the alliance. It helps build the legal infrastructure that holds up families—and the trust that holds our communities together.
