I grew up in a chaotic household with domestic violence and abuse. I became a domestic violence prosecutor and only then did I realize I had grown up in domestic violence (DV). It was so normal to me. I later learned my little sister was a survivor of domestic violence and stayed in the relationship for many years, largely due to the danger and difficulty of leaving and concern for custody of her son. These experiences gave me a window into the complexity of domestic violence.

I eventually went into private practice and knew I wanted to continue helping tell the stories of people in pain. I decided I will always have at least one domestic violence pro bono case at all times. A key to this mission has been the Nebraska Volunteer Lawyers Project (NEVLP), which connects victims of domestic abuse and sexual violence with pro bono or reduced fee attorneys for custody, divorce, and/or protection orders. Every time I complete a NEVLP case, I ask them to send me their most difficult case. I can’t talk about specific facts due to confidentiality, but the clients and their children are the reason I continue this difficult work. They are brave in ways most people never have to be. Watching someone reclaim their voice, protect their children, and take steps toward safety is inspiring. Children exposed to DV face a significantly higher risk of becoming victims or perpetrators of violence as adults. I witnessed this firsthand. Interrupting that cycle matters.

NEVLP does far more than make referrals. They are often the first point of hope for survivors who have been turned away everywhere else. They screen cases carefully, support attorneys throughout the representation, and understand the real dangers and complexities of DV in family law. I am a partner at Rembolt Ludtke in Lincoln, Nebraska and I believe every lawyer has the capacity to help. Through NEVLP, attorneys can make a meaningful difference when it matters most.