Matthew E. Syken earned a JD from Touro Law School before embarking on a career in corporate and finance law that has spanned more than a decade. Outside of his professional life, Matthew Syken has given back to the community through his volunteer efforts with nonprofit groups, such as the New York chapter of Volunteer Lawyers for the Arts (VLA).
The leading legal-aid organization dedicated to arts and artists, VLA offers free and low-cost legal services to artists in a range of disciplines, including painters, video-game designers, filmmakers, and poets. In addition to these services, the organization hosts regularly scheduled classes and workshops on arts-specific topics, such as contracts and creating a nonprofit group.
VLA also maintains several programs targeting special populations within the artist community. Among these is the Artist Over Sixty initiative, which helps older artists navigate age-related issues such as trusts, wills, and estate law, as well as general legal guidance. All Artists Over Sixty participants receive a free initial consultation with VLA volunteers, which is followed up with pro bono work.
Additionally, VLA offers Artists Over Sixty participants discounted classes, access to legal clinics at partner law firms, and unlimited free legal consultations for those who meet income guidelines. To learn more about the VLA Artists Over Sixty program, please visit vlany.org/artists-over-sixty.
