In the News: Pro Bono Support for Victims of Domestic Violence
One district attorney in the United States is helping victims of domestic violence find pro bono support to defend themselves in court.
Gerry Leone, District Attorney (DA) for Middlesex District in Massachusetts, recognized that the "state law prohibiting the DA’s office from representing victims of domestic abuse in court who need to extend a 10-day restraining order" was presenting a grave obstacles for victims. "More than a year and a half ago, Leone heard from women at a domestic violence forum about their biggest obstacle in confronting domestic violence."
These women were being forced to represent themselves in front of their abusers, a confrontation that was mentally, emotionally and physically difficult, if not nearby impossible. Leone connects lawyers with victims, a relationship that helps victims understand the ins and outs of the legal system they must navigate to press charges, and also for the lawyers who get the chance to appear before judges.
Tagged domestic violence, Law
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