The American Bar Association Commission on Domestic Violence has announced the launch of the first-ever National Domestic Violence Pro Bono Directory, a comprehensive national database of programs providing pro bono legal services to victims of domestic violence and made public online at www.probono.net/dv.

Although men also experience domestic violence, research shows the majority of victims are women. Around the world, at least one in four women has experienced some form of violence or abuse during her lifetime, and studies show some 10 million children witness domestic violence each year. This pro bono Web site, along with ABA and their partners’ other initiatives, is another positive step in the effort to prevent domestic violence and create awareness of the issue.

The online directory includes the types of cases these programs accept – e.g., immigration, housing, restraining orders, family law -- the scope of representation; the frequency and content of trainings for pro bono lawyers; and the on-going supervision and/or support provided to pro bono lawyers.

Initially made possible through a grant from the Avon Foundation, which funded the research and start-up costs of the project, the commission joined with Pro Bono Net, a national nonprofit organization working closely with nonprofit legal organizations across the United States and Canada, to create and develop the online directory. Pro Bono Net works to increase access to justice for the millions of underprivileged individuals who need but cannot afford a lawyer.

The Verizon Wireless HopeLine® program will continue to fund the directory for at least the next two years, ensuring it remains the most up-to-date, comprehensive and easily accessible resource for lawyers seeking to assist victims.

Full Verizon Wireless Press Release

National Domestic Violence Pro Bono Directory