About Us

We are a passionate team of lawyers, advocates, and volunteers serving survivor needs in all  five boroughs of New York City.

At DVP, we declare freedom from intimate partner abuse to be a fundamental human right. Our mission is to help survivors and their children live free of violence. We are dedicated to defending and protecting all individuals.

DVP was established in 2003 as a direct response to the disconnect amongst legal and social services providers for survivors of intimate partner violence, as well as emerging as one of the first providers to champion all survivor voices regardless of gender, race, sexual orientation, or otherwise. DVP has grown from 1 staff member in one borough to 23 full time staff and a team of interns, pro bono attorneys, and volunteers, citywide.

We meet the full needs of survivors through comprehensive legal and advocacy services. DVP is unique in its approach that values and recognizes the dignity and worth of all individuals. Our work is holistic, based in client self-determination, strengths-based, and collaborative.

Services are trauma-informed, allowing staff to develop working alliances with clients while their individual needs are met. Fostering skill building to better navigate and overcome barriers, staff prioritize services in ways that reflect client preferences while also ensuring safety. Currently, our services includes legal assistance, advocacy, outreach & training.