Speakers: Jenn Protas, Shareholder, Hoge Fenton
Jenn Protas
for her long-term support of FVAP in the area of employment law
What inspired you to get involved with FVAP?
Jenn Protas: At Hoge Fenton, pro bono work is core to how we show up for our community. FVAP is the only organization in California solely dedicated to appellate representation for domestic violence survivors. They do extraordinary specialized legal work. Our role is to support them on the operational side with employment law advice and counsel so they can focus on their work. We may not be in the courtroom with survivors, but we believe strongly that supporting the organizations doing that work is just as important. That's what drew us to FVAP and that's what has kept us committed for nearly 13 years.
Why is FVAP's work important to you?
Jenn Protas: FVAP wins 81% of the affirmative appeals they bring compared to a California statewide average of 21%. Every percentage point in that gap represents a family who got a second chance at safety. And what it takes to sustain that kind of performance isn't just talented attorneys, it's a well-run organization, stable staffing, sound policies, a team that can focus on the mission without getting tripped up by operational and legal challenges. That's where we come in. Knowing that our work helps protect the people who protect the survivors, that's what makes this meaningful.
What does this award mean to you?
Jenn Protas: It means a great deal, both personally and on behalf of the firm. Pro bono work is something Hoge Fenton believes in deeply, and being recognized by an organization like FVAP whose impact is so tangible and so important is genuinely an honor. I also hope it reflects something broader: that law firms have a real role to play in supporting the nonprofit ecosystem. This award is a reminder that every layer of support matters, and that's a value I'm proud our firm lives out.
