Travers Smith LLP is delighted to announce that the multi-award-winning Domestic Abuse Response Alliance (DARA) has placed its 200th case.
DARA provides advocacy services to survivors of domestic abuse who are not eligible for legal aid but who cannot afford to pay for private representation, providing them with legal help and court representation to the conclusion of their case.
Founded in 2022 by Travers Smith Partner and Head of Pro Bono Sam Cottman, DARA continues to go from strength to strength. Initially launched with seven leading law firms, DARA now comprises 10 firms and has an extended reach across the UK. DARA is a collaborative project, working with LawWorks, the National Centre for Domestic Violence (NCDV), Finding Legal Options for Women Survivors (FLOWS) and Beck Fitzgerald, providing end-to-end representation and advocacy support for domestic abuse survivors seeking protective orders against their abusers in the Family Courts.
The DARA firms are:
• Akin Gump
• Debevoise & Plimpton
• DLA Piper
• Eversheds Sutherland
• Gibson Dunn
• Hogan Lovells
• Latham & Watkins
• Reed Smith
• Slaughter and May
• Travers Smith
Sam Cottman says "Every 6 seconds a woman is assaulted in her home. Domestic abuse is a national emergency and should be treated as such.
As we mark DARA's 200th case, it is not simply a milestone but a testament to the unwavering commitment of every firm and person involved in the project. Each case represents a life impacted and a voice heard. It's a reminder of why we began DARA and a strong motivation for us to continue with even greater determination and help more people get the protection and justice they deserve."
Jenny Beck KC says "DARA provides a lifeline for survivors of domestic abuse. Legal aid is not available for all and DARA bridges the gap to widen access to justice in this critical area."
