Congresswoman Carolyn McCarthy announced the Nassau County Coalition Against Domestic Violence, Inc. (NCCADV) has been awarded a $227,958 Legal Assistance for Victims grant from the US Department of Justice's Office on Violence Against Women.

With this grant, NCCADV will increase the safety of domestic violence in Nassau County's under-served populations, such as victims named as defendants due to improper dual arrests, mutual orders of protection and those unable to speak English. NCCADV will provide access to comprehensive pro bono victim-centered legal representation to under-served and monolingual Spanish-speaking victims of domestic violence, sexual assault and stalking.

In addition, NCCADV will conduct community outreach and education to targeted communities and service providers and will recruit, train and mentor pro bono attorneys.

"This grant will address an often overlooked crisis that exists in our communities," McCarthy said. "Many victims of domestic violence are put at a distinct disadvantage by legal maneuvers and cultural barriers and are often intimidated into not seeking justice. This grant award will go a long way in helping NCCADV serve victims that may have been shut out of the legal systems otherwise."

The Legal Assistance for Victims Grant Program intends to increase the availability of direct legal services to victims of domestic violence, sexual assault and stalking in matters arising from the abuse or violence. The goal is to develop innovative, collaborative programs within the legal system that promote victim safety and increase victim economic autonomy.