Travers Smith dedicates significant resource to tackling violence against women and girls. This includes substantial pro bono programmes related to domestic abuse and human trafficking.
As part of that, our lawyers make applications on behalf of survivors of domestic abuse and human trafficking for compensation for their injuries from the Criminal Injury Compensation Authority (CICA). The evidential process can be very delicate to manage with traumatised clients and it can take many months, if not years, of persistence to see the matter through to an award.
We are pleased that in the last few weeks our pro bono and disputes lawyers have secured two awards totalling £50,000 for two exceptionally brave survivors of domestic abuse and human trafficking. We have acted for both clients for a number of years, in one case navigating civil and criminal proceedings as well as the compensatory process. These sums are life-changing and will help both individuals rebuild their lives and move towards a happier future.
Stephanie Lee, Disputes partner:
"Our lawyers have shown impressive dedication to these cases. The subject matter can be very difficult and it takes great care to work with clients to ensure they are not re-triggered by the process while properly conveying the full extent of their injuries and suffering to the authorities. Our all-female team on the human trafficking case did a wonderful job, and we look forward to helping more clients in due course."
Sam Cottman, partner and Head of Pro Bono:
"The individuals we act for in these matters are some of the bravest people I have ever met. While there is no sum of money that could ever compensate them for the suffering they have endured, I am pleased that we have been able to guide them through the process and present their evidence in such a way as to secure these significant payouts. I know this will mark a new chapter in their lives and we wish them both many brighter days ahead.
I would also like to take a moment to recognise the immense efforts of Stephanie Lee, Joss Hayward and Alice Allen in particular in securing these payouts."
Travers Smith's award-winning pro bono practice is built around four key pillars: Climate, Diversity, Vulnerable Groups and Rule of Law. Recent highlights include launching the Domestic Abuse Response Alliance (DARA), several wide-ranging racial justice investigations and cutting edge climate instructions.
