Hope’s Door Receives $800,000 Grant to Expand Legal Services for Domestic Violence Survivors

The Board of Trustees of the IOLA Fund of the State of New York awarded a 5-year grant to give expert legal information, advocacy, and representation to victims of intimate partner violence (IPV).

HAWTHORNE, NY (February 3, 2025) The Interest on Lawyer Account (IOLA) Fund has awarded Hope’s Door an $800,000 grant to expand its legal services program for survivors of intimate partner violence (IPV) in Westchester County. The 5-year grant will fund the placement of an attorney at Family Courts throughout the County, providing critical legal assistance that will benefit an estimated 5000 individuals impacted by intimate partner violence (IPV).

Hope’s Door, which has over 40 years of experience supporting victims of domestic violence, launched
its legal services program in 2018. The agency specializes in offering free, trauma informed and
culturally competent legal services. Its legal staff is adept at navigating the judicial system and
understanding its effect on IPV survivors.

“This funding enables us to place a dedicated attorney directly in Family Courts, ensuring survivors receive immediate and comprehensive legal support,” stated Stacey Neumann, Chief of Legal Services and Human Resources.

Survivors often turn to Family Court following an incident of violence, facing an array of challenges,
including fear of retaliation, lack of legal knowledge, and uncertainty about available protections. The
presence of an attorney in the courthouse at the outset of a case can provide crucial support, ensuring
access to justice and enhancing victim safety.

Neumann added “This vital addition ensures that survivors of intimate partner violence receive
immediate, trauma-informed legal support during some of the most vulnerable moments of their lives.”

The IOLA funded attorney will assist with drafting family offense petitions, representing petitioners at
their first court appearance, and offering ongoing representation throughout the family offense case.
This continuity of care mitigates the need for survivors to repeat their traumatic experiences to multiple
providers, ensuring seamless and compassionate legal support.

The Hope’s Door legal team, including attorneys and advocates, will work together to support clients
through the entire legal process.

If you or someone you know is in need of domestic violence services, text “Help” or call the Hope’s Door 24/7/365 Hotline at 888.438.8700.

Hope’s Door is a non-profit, 501 (c ) (3) charity that seeks to end domestic violence and to empower victims to achieve safety, independence, and healing from the trauma of abuse. For more information, go to www.HopesDoorNY.org or call our offices