Cleary Gottlieb has been recognized by Sanctuary for Families for its outstanding pro bono representation and advocacy on behalf of victims of domestic violence and sex trafficking. The honor was presented at Sanctuary for Families’ 11th Annual Above & Beyond Pro Bono Achievement Awards and Benefit in New York on October 23.
Cleary Gottlieb partnered with Sanctuary for Families to aid an African victim of domestic violence who was subsequently trafficked to the United States by diplomats. She was forced to work extraordinarily long hours for little pay and was kept as a virtual prisoner in her employer’s home.
The Cleary Gottlieb team interviewed and counseled the victim and identified expert witnesses who confirmed the risks she faced if she were to return home. The team compiled a comprehensive study of human rights abuses in the victim’s home country and helped her quickly secure asylum. The Cleary Gottlieb team included partner Jeffrey Rosenthal, and associates Cyrus Ghavi, Shira Kaufman and Carolyn Oh.
Sanctuary for Families is New York State’s leading service provider and advocate for survivors of domestic violence, sex trafficking, and related forms of gender violence. Sanctuary’s Legal Center is the largest of its kind in the country, with 21 full-time staff attorneys supported by over 500 pro bono attorneys and 400 law student advocates. Together, the Legal Center represents and advises over 5,000 domestic violence and trafficking survivors every year in an array of complex legal cases. Legal Center staff also provide comprehensive trainings to community partners, and advocate for legislative and policy changes to protect survivors of gender violence.
Cleary Gottlieb dedicates more than 90,000 hours to pro bono and public service annually.