Law School Graduate Overcomes Homelessness, Aims to Rejoin Legal Profession
March 19, 2025, 12:41 pm CDT
A poignant reminder of resilience, Rob Dart’s journey from homelessness back to the law profession is marked by hope and recovery. (Image from Shutterstock)
Rob Dart, a graduate of the University of Chicago Law School, has recently returned to his hometown in Virginia after enduring two years of homelessness in Los Angeles. He now resides with his mother, where he is actively seeking to reclaim his place in the legal field.
Struggles with Mental Health
Dart’s tumultuous journey began when he started experiencing auditory hallucinations at the age of 35. After a brief period of receiving medication and therapy, he abandoned treatment in 2022 during the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to his situation on the streets of Los Angeles. Despite his family’s efforts to assist him, including visits from his sister and mother, Dart often resisted their help.
Path to Recovery
In January 2025, Dart made a pivotal decision to move back with his mother and has since been undergoing treatment with the help of anti-psychotic medication. For over three months, he has been focused on his recovery, which includes participating in online continuing legal education courses as he works towards renewing his law license.
Community Support and Assistance
The family’s plight attracted attention through articles published by the Wall Street Journal, which highlighted Dart’s struggles and the efforts made by his loved ones to help him. This publicity resulted in community support; one reader set up a financial account for Dart at a local coffee shop, while another facilitated a connection with a psychiatrist who was willing to provide Dart with the care he needed.
Legal Career Background
Dart was initially admitted to practice law in Illinois in 2004 and later in California in 2009. However, he faced disciplinary actions, with his California license being suspended due to lapses in continuing legal education requirements, alongside unpaid fees. His last known registration address with Illinois attorney regulators was with the Wilshire Law Firm in Los Angeles.
As Dart continues his treatment and education, he is optimistic about reinstating his law practice and returning to a professional life dedicated to legal advocacy.
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