Jessie*, 23, came to LACLJ seeking protection from her abusive ex-boyfriend. She had lived with him for a few months and endured severe abuse until she called the cops. Her ex-boyfriend was arrested and moved out. A few months later, she saw him hanging around her apartment complex and filed for a temporary restraining order. In retaliation, he then filed a restraining order against her.
Through LACLJ’s ADVOCATE program, which connects pro bono attorneys to domestic violence survivors, four Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher attorneys (Samuel Spears, Rachel Cox, Hila Solomon and Kahn Scolnick) took on Jessie’s case. At trial, the ex-boyfriend’s family member testified negatively against Jessie. Our pro bono team had come well-prepared, having gone above and beyond in undertaking their own investigation before trial. The team uncovered information that immediately undermined the credibility of the ex-boyfriend and his witness. Thanks to the Gibson Dunn team’s preparation and stellar performance at trial, the court awarded Jessie a maximum five-year restraining order.
LACLJ’s Teen/LA Attorney and MSW Intern provided additional follow-up to Jessie, including counseling referrals and safety planning. Now Jessie, who continues to work and support herself, can live comfortably in her own home without the lingering fear of her batterer and move onto a safer life.
* Client’s name has been changed for confidentiality.
