About Shay

I am a solo practitioner committed to reforming the legal system and providing zealous advocacy for individuals and communities who too often lack access to justice. In my practice I combine rigorous legal analysis, strategic litigation, and compassionate client counseling to challenge unfair policies, hold powerful institutions accountable, and secure meaningful remedies for people facing poverty, discrimination, or systemic barriers.

Recognizing that courtroom victories alone cannot cure structural problems, I pursue a multifaceted approach: litigating precedent-setting cases when necessary, partnering with community organizations to develop grassroots solutions, engaging in legislative and policy advocacy to change harmful laws, and conducting public education to empower clients and allies. I devote particular attention to representing marginalized populations—low-income litigants, immigrants, survivors of domestic violence, and others whose voices are often excluded from decision-making processes.

As a solo practitioner, I leverage flexibility and close client relationships to tailor creative legal strategies that larger firms may overlook. I prioritize trauma-informed interviewing, clear communication about rights and options, and diligent case management to maximize each client’s chance for a durable outcome. I also collaborate with pro bono counsel, impact-focused nonprofits, and academic clinics to amplify resources and expertise.

My long-term goal is systemic transformation: to dismantle barriers within court systems, reduce punitive enforcement practices, expand access to counsel, and promote equitable policies that address the root causes of legal vulnerability. By combining individual representation with strategic reform efforts, I aim to build a more just legal system that protects dignity, advances fairness, and ensures that those in need are heard and represented.

Mission & Vision

Welcome to Negron Law, the Law Firm of Shahily Negron, Esq.! While I’m proud to run a for-profit practice, my goal is always to make legal help accessible and welcoming to everyone in our community. Although I’m not able to offer free services right now, I’m committed to keeping my rates affordable through low-bono options. I truly hope to transition my practice to a nonprofit in the future, so I can help even more people. When you work with me, you’ll find I approach every case with a trauma-informed perspective, making sure you feel heard, respected, and understood. My vision is to offer exceptional, affordable legal advocacy while building a strong, supportive community around you.

My Background & Experience

I’m excited to share a little bit about my journey with you! I graduated from Hunter College in 2010 with a bachelor’s degree in Sociology and a minor in Psychology. For as long as I can remember, I’ve dreamed of being an attorney and working in the legal field. In my twenties, I had the opportunity to work at a mid-size law firm in Manhattan, New York, where I managed the day-to-day operations as the firm administrator. At 32, I took the leap and was accepted into the law program at Roger Williams University School of Law, earning my Juris Doctor in May 2021. Along the way, I’ve always been passionate about giving back—volunteering and participating in trainings focused on domestic violence, mental health, and social work. I chose to start my own practice because I wanted to create an environment where my learning style, work ethic, and advocacy could truly shine. Having spent nearly twenty years in the legal field and entering law school in my thirties, I’ve developed a clear vision, mission, and set of goals that guide my work today. While I was named after my mother’s best friend in the Dominican Republic, I prefer to go by Attorney Shay. I’m proudly Dominican and Puerto Rican, originally from the South Bronx and Washington Heights, and Spanish is my second language. As a first-generation high school, college, and law school graduate, I love playing video games, swimming, and cooking in my free time. I’m also a huge fan of true crime reporting and investigating! I look forward to connecting with you and supporting you on your journey.

Let’s Normalize Mental Health

If you get to know me, you'll quickly see how passionate I am about mental health and the importance of reaching out for support when life gets tough. In the legal field, challenges like depression and substance abuse are, unfortunately, all too common. I recently read an article, “Addiction & Substance Abuse in Lawyer,” that pointed out how the long hours and tough cases lawyers handle can sometimes lead to unhealthy coping strategies, including substance use. This is a real concern for so many people in our profession. That’s why I believe it’s so important to talk openly about these issues—no one should feel ashamed or alone. I personally live with anxiety and depression, and I’m open about my experiences because they don’t stop me from practicing law or advocating for my clients. In fact, they make me even more determined to support and uplift those I work with.