What We Do
We Provide Comprehensive, Pro Bono Legal Aid
Volunteer Legal Advocates delivers life-changing, free legal help to domestic violence survivors and vulnerable children in Washington, DC, and Montgomery County, MD. Through our core programs, unique volunteer model, and the wrap-around support of our Client Advocacy team, we ensure our clients have the tools and representation they need to build safe, stable futures.
Our Programs & Services
Domestic Violence
Our volunteer, staff, and supervising attorneys work together to secure protection orders, custody, and other family law safeguards to help survivors break free from abuse.
Child Advocacy
For over a decade, our attorneys have served as court-appointed Guardians ad litem for vulnerable children in dangerous situations, providing a voice in court for these young victims to ensure a safe and secure home for each child.
Immigration
Our attorneys provide legal services to immigrant victims of domestic and other forms of gender-based violence and vulnerable immigrant children.
Impact Litigation & Advocacy
Our volunteer and staff appellate attorneys brief and argue strategic appeals, submit amicus briefs, and pursue precedents that protect victims and children statewide. Each win reverberates far beyond a single family, strengthening the legal landscape for thousands.
Free Legal Clinics
With free weekly walk-in clinics across the region, we meet clients and neighbors where they live to offer immediate legal advice.
Client Advocacy
Our trained Client Advocates offer trauma-informed, holistic support through safety planning, emotional guidance, and help accessing vital community resources, ensuring survivors never face legal and life challenges alone.
Our Annual Impact
HOURS OF VOLUNTEER LEGAL SERVICES
IN FREE LEGAL SERVICES
SURVIVORS AND CHILDREN SERVED IN DC AND MD
Client Advocacy
As our clients navigate significant legal and emotional challenges, our Client Advocates provide safety planning, trauma-informed crisis intervention, ongoing emotional support, and access to critical supports and services. Integrating legal representation with comprehensive advocacy maximizes each client’s chance of escaping violence and sustaining a safe, independent future. Supports include:
- Safety planning & crisis intervention grounded in trauma-informed care
- Emotional support during and after court
- Connections to critical services such as emergency shelter, housing assistance, counseling, healthcare, public benefits, and parenting classes
