WINSTON-SALEM, N.C.—Protecting domestic violence victims is one of the most important pro bono services a law firm can provide. For a decade, Womble Bond Dickinson paralegals and legal secretaries have been on the front lines defending domestic violence victims.
The Safe on Seven Domestic Violence Center brings all together the key resources needed by domestic violence victims, including court system officials, law enforcement, victim advocates, legal advocates and social services representatives, in one location. Previously, domestic violence victims had to seek help at multiple locations, creating unnecessary stress during an already difficult time in their lives.
The firm’s Winston-Salem office has participated in the Safe on Seven program since 2008, when Firm Vice-Chair Ellen Gregg and FirmLogic Team Leader Chris Douglas coordinated the first volunteer efforts. Since then, Womble Bond Dickinson volunteers have provided thousands of hours of assistance to this program, assisting victims with the court process, specifically requests for civil restraining/protective orders.
Legal Secretary Juli Blair coordinates the program for the firm; Jean Barneycastle previously served as program coordinator. The following team members have volunteered their time to help with the Safe on Seven pro bono project: Robin Allen, Karen Angell, Tina Barber, Michelle Barlow, Jean Barneycastle, Cindy Beasley, Tracy Bell, Juli Blair, Theresa Coalson, Glenda Darnell, Maria De Varona, Annette Eggleston, Christa Geyer, Sharon Hedgecock, Jane Ingram, LeAnna Jacobs, Chrissy Johnson, Cathrine Kaguyutan, Kathryn Karacia, Diana Killmeyer, Lee Lovill, Lea Manolagas, Tricia Mason, Janet McIntyre, Cynthia McMillan, Caitlin Meadows, Sherri Morris, Barbara Norman, Angela Owens, Suzanne Pierberg, Erin Pisciotta, Lisa Prevette, Celeste Queen, Stephanie Ross, Rosa Rubenstein, Lynn Smith, Sarah Turner, Ashley Warlick, Julie Willis and Debra Wilson.