Keeping Survivors Safe Through Advocacy

The DC Bar Foundation funds legal services organizations in DC that help residents during times of crisis. Volunteer Legal Advocates—formerly DC Volunteer Lawyers Project—is working to end the cycle of violence for survivors and children through pro bono legal aid. Their mission focuses on advocating for domestic violence victims, children, and other vulnerable individuals; empowering victims with knowledge, resources, and ongoing support; and broadening impact by engaging, training, and supporting lawyers and community volunteers. The client story below is just one example of how Volunteer Legal Advocates’ programs and services help keep survivors safe.

When Adeah was with her abuser, he threatened and attempted suicide to control her. Eventually, she decided to cut off all contact with him. However, he continued to call, text, and email her. After a few months of unwanted contact, his calls turned violent. Eventually, he showed up at her house and attacked her, leading to his arrest.

Following this incident and knowing he possessed a firearm, Adeah attempted to file a Civil Protection Order. However, she struggled with the complexities of navigating the legal process on her own. A DC Superior Court Judge referred her to Volunteer Legal Advocates, where she received same-day legal services from an attorney on the day of her court appearance. Following the initial court appearance, Volunteer Legal Advocates’ attorneys took on Adeah’s Civil Protection Order case for full representation and helped her file for an Extreme Risk Protection Order due to her abuser owning a firearm. Adeah’s attorneys were successful in both her Civil Protection Order and the Extreme Risk Protection Order cases, securing a two-year Civil Protection Order and preventing Adeah’s abuser from legally possessing a firearm.

During this time, Adeah’s abuser was charged with assault, and Volunteer Legal Advocates attorneys also provided Adeah with criminal advocacy as a crime victim. Her abuser ultimately pleaded guilty without going to trial, which aligned with Adeah’s wishes to avoid further traumatization through the trial procedure.

Adeah was thrilled to have support with navigating complex legal procedures and was grateful that, after months of living in fear, she could once again feel safe and secure.